Evander stepped out of his car, the hum of the engine fading as he locked it with a soft beep. The air smelled of fresh grass and jasmine from the garden. Adjusting his tie, which had grown uncomfortably tight throughout his long day, he untied it with one hand, a sigh of relief escaping him as he made his way to the front door.
He could hear the familiar sounds of animated voices and cheerful music from the TV. As soon as he entered, his eyes landed on Ashton, lying on the soft gray couch, looking pretty relaxed. His small hands clutching the remote while his eyes remained glued to the cartoon playing on the screen.
"Ashton," Evander called softly.
The boy turned his head, his bright eyes lighting up as soon as he saw his father. "Dad! You're home!" Ashton jumped to his feet, abandoning the remote on the couch as he rushed toward Evander.
