JEMMA’S POV
The sun is already settingas I walk home from school with my backpack slung over one shoulder.
Today has been a good day—nothing extraordinary, just the usual classes and laughter with friends—Clarissa and Zaya. Everything is going gret but as I round the corner onto Main Street, something makes it even better.
My dad.
He stands on the sidewalk, hands tucked into the pockets of his jacket. His eyes scan the street like he's waiting for something. My heart leaps at the sight of him.
"Dad!" I call, breaking into a jog.
He turns and smiles, that warm, familiar smile that has always made me feel safe. "Hey, kiddo. How was school?"
I beam up at him, pushing aside the usual answer of "fine" because right now, all that matters is that I’m happy to see him. "It was good! Just.
