David and Xavier pulled into the driveway of Xavier’s compound just as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the lawn. The air was warm with the scent of salt from the nearby beach. David stepped out of the SUV first, his arm still bandaged but moving with less pain. Xavier followed, locking the car with a beep.
The front door opened before they reached it. Micah stood there, Miranda peeking out from behind her legs. Miranda’s face lit up when she saw David.
“Daddy!” she called, running to him.
David bent down and scooped her up with his good arm, holding her close. “Hey, princess. Miss me?”
Miranda hugged his neck tight. “Yes. You were gone all day.”
David kissed her cheek. “I’m here now. Let’s go inside.”
They walked in together. The living room was cozy—lam
