Richard stood outside the small cottage building, holding a stuffed giraffe in one hand and a neatly packed baby bag in the other. The morning air was cool, and for a moment, he hesitated. It had been weeks since the day at the hospital. Weeks since he last saw Ann. After the birth, she had asked for space. Her words were calm, but her eyes were firm. “I need time, Richard. Alone.”
And so, for the first time in his life, Richard Knight had stepped back respecting her choice, even when it hurt. But now he was here again. Not to force his way in. Not to argue. Just to show up. He rang the bell and paused. Then her voice came through the intercom, cautious. “Who is it?” “It’s me,” he said. “Richard.” There was Silence then, he cleared his throat. “I’m not here to fight. I just… I’d like to s
