Her delicate eyelids fluttered as tears spilled down her soft cheeks.

Eric’s heart shattered, his desperate arms still extended toward her. “Please don’t cry, Joy. Daddy is still your daddy—forever. Joy is Daddy’s precious baby. You will always be my only daughter. Please, let Daddy hold you close, sweetheart.”

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“Mommy?” Joy’s voice was hoarse as she looked at Hadley.

Anyone watching could see how deeply Joy missed Eric. That longing belonged to every child.

“Go on. Daddy’s waiting. Let him give you a hug.” Hadley’s voice caught in her throat. She forced a reassuring smile and nudged her daughter forward.

“Alright.” Excitement flickered in Joy’s eyes. She glanced at Eric, lifting her little arms. “Will you carry me?”

“Absolutely.” Eric reached for her at once. He swept her up, pressing a kiss onto her tangled hair, unable to hide the swell of emotion in his chest.

“Daddy.” Nestled against Eric’s shoulder, Joy held onto his collar. Her voice was a gentle breath at his ear.

The word stunned Eric. He stood frozen, wide-eyed. Not since leaving Olisvale Bay had Joy called him that.

“Joy!” He managed a shaky answer, his excitement impossible to hide. “Yes, Daddy’s right here.”

“Daddy,” Joy said, a soft whimper escaping her as she pressed her mouth close to his ear, barely whispering, “Can you and Mommy be together again?”

That question caught Eric off guard. His whole body went still, words catching in his mouth. He wished more than anything to say yes. If only it were that simple.

Tears slipped quietly down Joy’s cheeks. She buried her face in his neck, sobbing, “I want us to be together. I want our family.”

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“Joy…” Heart heavy with guilt, Eric stroked her hair, searching for a reply that would comfort her. His voice was gentle, but all he could offer was a silent apology. “I’m sorry for everything, for letting you and your mommy down.”

“It’s getting late,” Hadley said softly, breaking the moment. Her words brought them back to the present. “Joy needs her rest. Let’s head home.”

“Of course,” Eric agreed. He checked on Joy in his arms, then stepped outside, holding her close.

“Let’s get you home, sweetheart.” His voice was soothing. Before long, the steady movement of the car lulled Joy to sleep.

She stayed sound asleep, cradled against Eric’s chest, even as they pulled up to Jewel Avenue.

“May I bring her inside?” Eric asked softly.

That request came with a flutter of nerves. Part of him still braced for Hadley to say no. He hadn’t crossed that threshold since the split. He knew he had no right to intrude on her new life.

“Go ahead and come in,” Hadley answered without hesitation, almost offhand. She added gently, “Hold on, I’ll get the door for you.”

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Message from Noah: New chapters a bit early this time dear readers, I hope you like them. God loves you, and I wish you all the best. ( ? ? – ) ?

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