The courtroom fell silent. Megan sobbed, but the judge’s decision was swift and clear. Custody was granted to me.

That night, Sophie and I walked out hand in hand.

I wore no armor, carried no weapon—but it was the hardest battle I’d ever fought. And the most important one I’d ever won.

The months that followed weren’t easy. Nightmares haunted her. She flinched at raised voices. But slowly, with patience and love, we healed together. The first time she laughed again—really laughed—I knew we were going to be okay.

Now, when I watch her chase fireflies in the yard, I sometimes think back to that night in the garage. Rage still simmers somewhere deep inside, but love drives me forward.

I went to war for my country. But my greatest fight was for my daughter’s future. And this time—I won.