Chapter 7

Archer approached the little boy, smiling as he bent down and gently stroked the child's face.

A face that bore a striking resemblance to his own.

The little boy chattered away, recounting the day's events at kindergarten, while Iris looked on with a tender smile.

Anyone would say they were the picture of a happy, perfect family.

In his excitement, the little boy tried to hug Archer.

Archer stepped back, avoiding the embrace, and gently scolded:

"Melody, you've forgotten again."

Melody pouted, feeling hurt.

"Why can other kids hug their dads, but I can't? I don't drink milk anymore, so I don't smell like it."

Archer cast a cool glance at Jade.

Iris quickly stepped forward, coaxing softly: "Daddy has to work at night, it's very tiring. Melody, don't fuss."

"Why does Daddy have to work every night?"

Iris hesitated for a moment, then turned and asked in a low voice:

"Do you really have to go? Can't you make an exception just this once?"

Archer's face darkened.