Richard’s footsteps on the stairs echoed like a promise of safety. He entered the room, his face a mix of worry and anger, softened only by the sight of his children. He knelt down, enveloping them in a hug that felt like a shield against the world.

“Daddy, are you going to send her away?” Michael asked, his voice small and hopeful.

Richard sighed deeply, weighing the burden of parental love and the complexity of broken relationships. “I’m going to make sure you’re both safe. That’s my first job,” he said gently, smoothing Emily’s hair. “No one will hurt you again, I promise.”

Emily lifted her head, her eyes searching his. “Really?”