The mornings had become Claire’s favorite part of the day.
Sunlight streamed through the tall windows of the east wing as Alex Jr. ran across the living room, his laughter echoing like music. At five years old, he was a whirlwind of joy — dark hair messy from sleep, emerald-green eyes sparkling with mischief. Xander knelt on the floor, pretending to be a “big bad wolf” chasing him, while Claire watched from the doorway with a soft smile.
“Rawr! I’m going to catch you!” Xander growled playfully, scooping their son up and spinning him around. Alex Jr. squealed with delight, wrapping his small arms around his father’s neck.
“Daddy, you’re the best wolf ever!” the boy declared, pressing a sticky kiss to Xander’s cheek.
Claire’s heart swelled as she watched them. These sweet, everyday momen
