Chapter 105

Mint shook her head, her little chin jutting out defiantly. The afternoon sun filtered through the living room curtains, dust motes drifting lazily in the golden light. “It’s still better if Daddy and Papa Jacq are home,” she declared, her voice firm despite the tiny tremor at the edges. Then, as if to soften her resolve, she added, “And now that you’re here, let’s play with Papa Jacq.” She turned toward Nathan—her father—eyes bright with anticipation.

Jack glanced over his shoulder at the pair: a father waiting patiently, a daughter brimming with hope. Behind him, Theresa nestled on his back, gripping both shoulders for balance while carrying Riley’s chubby-cheeked son, who regarded the room with sleepy curiosity. Jack’s heart warmed at the scene. Mint’s auburn curls caught the light as he leaned down and tousled her hair. “I’m sorry, little princess,” he murmured in his soft baritone. “I can’t play right now. Your Papa Cloud and I have to dash out and grab groceries. Why don