Emily quickens her pace, breaking into a jog before throwing herself into his arms under his stunned gaze.
She hugs him tightly, her body trembling slightly as she whispers, "I handled it myself!"
She looks up at him with a smile. "But I used your name to scare them!"
Looking at her smile, which is barely better than her crying, Charlie's heart aches. He leans down and kisses the top of her head. His deep, resonant voice, like a cello, carries an infinite comforting power. "You did great."
Holding her with one arm, he gently caresses her cheek with his free hand, his voice softening even more. "It's okay. Not everyone gets to have loving, perfect parents. You have Kya and me, and you have in-laws who are counting down the days until you join our family. You will only gain more than what you've lost."
Emily hugs him tighter. "God has been so good to me!"
"It's not God being good to you, it's your man being good to you," Charlie chuckles softly.
Emily bursts into laughter. In this moment, safe in his arms, she is laughing like a child again.
Feeling relieved, Charlie pinches her cheek. "Let's go. I'm taking you home."
It's getting late, past the end of the workday. It's indeed time to head home.
The sunset reflects in Emily's bright, clear eyes. "I drove here myself!"
"Then you drive, and I'll escort you from behind!" Charlie smiles handsomely.
"Then you can see if my driving has improved."
"My girl is so smart. I don't even need to look to know you're already a pro racer!"
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