Michael crouched down, brushing a stray lock of hair from Sophie’s forehead. “Want to tell me about the hike?” he asked gently.
Sophie shrugged, her voice barely above a whisper. “It was… okay.” But the usual sparkle was missing from her eyes.
Laura cleared her throat, stepping forward. “She’s been a little quiet lately. Nathan’s been trying to get her outdoors more — you know, to help with the transition.”
Michael nodded slowly, but something unsettled him. Sophie’s silence wasn’t just tiredness. There was a weight there, one he hadn’t seen before.
“Alright, kiddo,” he said softly, opening the door wider. “Let’s get you inside. Maybe a hot chocolate will help.”
As Sophie stepped inside, Michael’s mind raced. What was really going on with his daughter? And why did Laura avoid meeting his gaze?
He resolved to find out — no matter what it took.
