After entering the house, Jayden let go of River’s hand and ran toward Laurent joyfully. “Dad.”

“Hey, kiddo,” replied Laurent.

He waited till Jayden ran over and lifted him happily. He kissed Jayden’s cheek and said, “I missed you, Jay.”

“I missed you more, Dad. I haven’t seen you in a long time. I’m not awake whenever you head out in the morning, and I’m already asleep by the time you’re back.”

Laurent smiled. “It hasn’t been that long, only since summer vacation started, because you sleep