He was practical, dependable, and sometimes reserved. He worked hard, kept careful track of household expenses, and believed that love was demonstrated through actions rather than grand declarations.
Before Sophie's arrival, he and Emma had enjoyed a simple relationship.
He helped her with school projects, taught her how to ride a bicycle, and occasionally surprised her with her favorite chocolate after difficult days.
When she was younger, he would wait beside the front door whenever she came home from school.
He always asked about her day.
Sometimes she answered with excitement. Sometimes she shrugged and disappeared upstairs.
He never imagined that one day she would need him in ways neither of them had been prepared for.
When the truth about Emma's pregnancy emerged, Michael was devastated.
Not because he believed his daughter had brought shame upon the family.
Not because he considered her future worthless.
He was devastated because she was still his little girl, and he understood that something had happened which would change her life permanently.
