Mark: Hey buddy, how are those block towers coming along?
Mark walked into the sunlit living room of their Dallas home, carrying a tray with two juice boxes and a plate of sliced apples.
Leo: Look Daddy! I built the tallest house in the whole world!
Leo grinned, pointing proudly at a wobbly tower of colorful plastic blocks on the rug. The red swelling on his right hand had faded to a light, barely visible mark.
Mark: Wow, that is incredible, Leo. You're getting so good at that.
Leo: Daddy... do I have to go back to that room with the mean lady?
Mark's heart tightened, but he kept his smile warm and steady as he knelt beside his son on the rug.
Mark: Never again, Leo. Never again. That lady is gone, and she will never hurt you or any other child ever again.
Leo: Promise?
Mark: I promise you with all my heart. Starting next week, you're going to a brand new school with a beautiful playground and teachers who love having you there.
Leo: Can you come with me on the first day?
Mark: I'll be right beside you every step of the way, buddy.
Leo wrapped his small arms tightly around Mark's neck, resting his head against his father's shoulder.
Leo: I love you, Daddy. You came and saved me.
Mark: I'll always come for you, son. Always.
Mark held his boy close, looking out the window at the bright morning sky, knowing that no matter what challenges lay ahead, his family was safe, whole, and protected.
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