Daniel contacted his commanding officer. Though recently discharged, he received a small reintegration grant and a referral to veteran services. It stung to ask for help, but his pride meant nothing compared to his children’s needs.

Neighbors soon whispered the truth. Rachel had left months ago in a black car with another man. Some had provided help to Emily, but she’d refused, insisting she could handle things herself.

One afternoon, while Daniel repaired the fence, Emily approached quietly. “Daddy… are you going to leave too?”

The question nearly crushed him.

He dropped the hammer and knelt before her. “No, sweetheart. Never. You and Joshua are my whole world.”