The thunderous applause and cheers from the countdown slowly subsided, leaving behind a buzz of excitement in the air. Riley, still holding Sam close, looked down at his small, sleepy face. Despite all the noise and commotion, the little girl had started to drift off, his tiny fist clutching the fabric of her coat. She smiled softly, brushing a strand of hair from his face. The fireworks lit up the night sky, but Riley’s focus remained on the warm bundle in her arms.
As the crowd began to disperse, a few people in the VIP section congratulated Riley on how adorable Sam was and complimented Alistair’s heartfelt interaction on stage. She offered polite smiles, though her heart raced as she noticed a group of reporters pushing past the barriers toward her.
Before she could react, the camera
