37: we'/ll have to spend the night together!

Declan stepped into his house after a long day at work, his shoulders heavy and eyes tired. The weight of meetings, deals, and deadlines still clung to him, but the moment his gaze landed on the living room, everything shifted.

There, sprawled on the plush rug in front of the TV, sat his two children—Avery and Elias—locked in a fierce video game battle, controllers in hand and expressions intense. The room was filled with their bickering, laughter, and the occasional groan of frustration.

Declan's lips curved into a tired but heartfelt smile.

No matter how exhausting the world outside was, this—this little chaotic pocket of love and noise—was his true peace.

He walked toward them quietly, like a parent trying not to alert overly-competitive siblings. Once close enough, he reached into his coat pocket and pulled out two familiar bars, wrapped in glossy packaging.