The workday had gone on as usual, though a bit lighter, allowing Esme the rare luxury of heading home early. As she approached the house, she heard a sweet, cheerful voice filling the air. It wasn't Aron's voice. No, this was different—Ray, Kai, and Jay.
Esme slipped through the door quietly, her curiosity piqued. As she stepped into the hall, the scene before her warmed her heart instantly. Ray was gently shaking a small toy in his hand, the soft jingling sound coming from it as the baby's eyes followed every movement.
Kai stood beside him, holding a milk bottle, ready for when the baby needed it, while Jay, the ever-playful one, made exaggerated funny faces, eliciting giggles from the little one swaddled in Ray's arms.
Ryan's strong yet careful hold around the baby exuded a tenderness Esme rarely saw in him. His focus was entirely on the child, rocking gently back and forth, soothing the baby with every swaying motion.
