Ryan (35): A senior portfolio manager who overcame betrayal and emotional stagnation to become a devoted single father. Analytical, compassionate, and fiercely protective.
Emma (6): Ryan's adopted daughter. Bright, creative, gentle. Initially withdrawn due to trauma but blossoms in a loving environment.
Robert & Linda: Ryan's narcissistic, entitled parents who use manipulation and guilt as tools. They dismiss Emma as less-than due to her not being biologically related.
Meredith (29): Ryan's younger sister. A manipulative single mother of two who shirks responsibility and leeches off their parents and Ryan.
Bella (8) & Zoe (6): Meredith's spoiled daughters, taught entitlement from a young age.
Janet: Emma's caseworker. Kind, observant, and supportive of Ryan's desire to adopt.