The afternoon sun hung low over Xavier’s compound, casting golden ripples across the pool. David sat on a lounge chair with Miranda perched between his legs, her small back against his chest. Micah sat beside them, feet dangling in the water, a soft smile on her face as she watched father and daughter. Miranda giggled as David tickled her sides lightly, her laughter bright and innocent in the warm air.
“Stop, Daddy!” Miranda squealed, twisting in his arms.
David chuckled low and stopped, wrapping his arms around her instead. “Okay, okay. No more tickles. But listen, baby girl. I need to talk to you about something important.”
Miranda turned her head up to look at him, her big eyes curious. “What, Daddy?”
David glanced at Micah, who nodded encouragingly. He looked back at his daughter.
