A promise

As dawn crept into Micheal and Yvonne’s home, a soft blush of sunlight spilled through the curtains, casting gentle shadows across the room. But the calm of the early morning was shattered as the door to Micheal’s bedroom opened, and Jack and Lily hurried in, their bare feet making quick, urgent sounds on the floorboards.

“Daddy!” Lily’s voice wobbled with worry, her hands clasped tightly together as she peered around the room. Jack, standing close beside her, mirrored her anxious expression, his gaze scanning the bed.

Micheal stirred, his sleep-heavy eyes opening as he registered the children’s presence. He sat up, rubbing a hand over his face, trying to shake off the remnants of sleep. “What’s wrong?” he asked gently, sensing their unease.

Lily’s voice quivered as she explained, “Mommy … she wasn’t there when we woke up.” The simple statement hung in the air, heavy with fear and confusion. Jack nodded silently, his small fists clenched by his sides.

Micheal let out a soft sigh, pull