Chapter 4 - THE WARMTH OF A NEW DAWNThe front door clicked shut, sealing out the winter wind and the ghosts of Rebecca’s past.
Rebecca slid down the hallway wall, burying her face in her hands as silent, exhausted sobs finally wracked her body. Chloe and Clare rushed to her, wrapping their tiny arms around her neck, crying softly in unison.
James walked over, kneeling beside them on the old wooden floor. He didn't offer empty platitudes. Instead, he reached out and gently rested his hand on Clare’s small shoulder.
"You’re safe now," James said quietly. "No one is taking you anywhere."
Clare looked up, wiping a tear from her cheek with the back of her sleeve. She stared at James, tilting her head with the innocent candor only five-year-olds possess.
"Mister?" Clare whispered.
"Yes, sweetie?"
"Are you a superhero?"
James couldn't help it—a warm, genuine laugh broke through his stoic exterior. He smiled, the lines around his eyes softening. "No, Clare. Just a guy who really hates bullies."
Chloe sniffled, looking up at James with big, bright blue eyes. "You're tall. And you have a nice coat. My friend Leo at daycare says his dad is cool because he has a truck. But you have a whole house in the woods. I think you're a cool dad."
The word hung in the air: Dad.
Rebecca froze, looking up quickly, her cheeks flushing crimson through her tears. "Oh, sweetie, no, Mr. Carter isn't—"
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"It's fine, Rebecca," James interrupted softly, his gaze locking onto hers. There was no awkwardness, only a profound, unspoken understanding passing between two lonely souls who had just found each other in the dark.
"Let's get you all some real food," James said, standing up and extending a hand to help Rebecca to her feet.
