Edwin walked into the house with Mona at his side. His steps were heavy, his hand trembling slightly as he held onto the cane.
Outside, Miles sat beside Elena on the garden bench. She was silent, staring at the ground, her face still wet with tears. Miles placed a gentle hand over hers.
"Mom," he said softly, "you don't have to carry this alone anymore. I'm here."
Elena leaned into him, drawing comfort from her son's quiet strength.
Inside the house, Edwin stopped at the living room. Daniel stood there, watchful but polite. Hope and Asher peeked out from behind him, their small eyes curious.
Edwin's lips quivered as he looked at them. He lowered himself slowly to his knees despite Mona's concern.
Hope tilted her head. "Grandpa? Are you our grandpa?"
Edwin's throat tightened. His tears slipped free as he nodded. "Yes… yes, my little ones. I am your grandpa."
Asher walked closer, studying him with the unfiltered innocence of a child. "Why are you crying, Grandpa?"
