“Are you all right, sweetheart?” he asked, concern lacing his words. Emily looked up, her big eyes meeting his, unsure whether to trust this stranger. But something in his gaze felt safe, almost like the embrace of her father.
“I’m—I’m all alone,” Emily stammered, tears streaming down her cheeks once more. Her teddy bear, soggy and matted, was the only comfort she had left.
Alexander glanced at the house, where Diana peered through the curtains with a satisfied smirk. He understood everything in that brief moment. His heart ached for Emily, and without hesitation, he made a decision that would change both their lives.
