The sun broke through the clouds, casting a warm glow over the damp streets. Jack pulled his car into the driveway of his sister's home and stepped out. He reached the doorstep and knocked lightly.
The door opened, revealing Kate, his niece, her small hand pushing it wider. "Uncle Jack! I thought you were coming later tonight."
Jack ruffled her hair with a grin. "Sorry, kid. Had some things to take care of."
Kate shrugged, unfazed. "It's fine. Lizzy's still napping."
Jack stepped inside. "Where's your mum?"
"She's on a call with a client," Kate replied, leading him to the living room. (She's editing some article. Works from home, just a few hours.)
Jack sank onto the sofa, listening as Kate launched into one of her beloved horror stories, her voice hushed to avoid waking Lizy. She is obsessed with the macabre stories.
Elin emerged from her room, her smile warm but tired. "Eaten anything?"
Jack shrugged. "A bit."
His stomach growled, betraying him. Elin raised an eyebrow. "Don't lie to me. I'll get you something."
As she moved to the kitchen, memories flickered in her mind. Her husband—drunk, cruel, a menace to everyone—had torn their lives apart. Elin had spent too many days crying, especially after catching him with another woman. He'd demanded money to leave, his threats venomous. That was when Jack had stormed in, pinning the man against the wall with a look that could freeze blood. "Get out," he'd growled, "and don't come near my sister ever again." From then on, she never had to be sad. Since their parents' death, Jack and Eira were the only ones who had Elin. Elin is like a little mother to Jack. She is his elder sister. For Elin, he is still her little brother, playing bravely to look cool.
They ate together, the quiet broken by Lizy's waking. She toddled out, her sleepy smile brightening at the sight of Jack. Elin chuckled, brushing crumbs from her hands. "Go wash up first, Jack. You're covered in half the city's dust."
"Aye, boss," he teased, heading to the next room in the apartment he shared with Lizy. After a quick shower, he returned to find Lizy giggling, tossing toys across the floor. He joined her, their laughter filling the small space.
Checking his watch, Jack stood. "Lizy, stay put. Daddy's gotta pack some milk and snacks for our trip." Lizzy squealed, flinging a toy with joy.
"Kate!" Jack called. "I'm heading out. I'll drop you off at school."
"Coming!" Kate shouted, grabbing her bag.
Elin followed them to the door. "Take care, Jack. And don't give Lizzy too many sweets and toys—her room's already a toy shop, and her teeth don't need the trouble."
Jack smiled. "I know, I know."
Elin "Did you take food for her?"
Jack smiled, checking his bag. "Got food for her, don't worry."
Kate tugged at his sleeve. "Uncle, come on, I'm gonna be late!"
"Alright, little vampire," he teased, nodding to her love for spooky tales.