A Father's Scar

VANESSA

"Mom, can Dad have lunch with us today?" Fabian asked, looking up from his drawing with hopeful eyes.

My breath caught in my throat. Even after weeks, hearing Fabian call Roman "Dad" still felt surreal. Like an alternate reality I never thought I'd witness.

"I... well, I suppose that would be fine," I said, trying to sound casual while my heart did somersaults. "If he's not too busy."

Fabian's face lit up. "He's never too busy for me! He told me so."

That simple statement hit me like a physical blow. Roman had been true to his word, making time for Fabian every single day since learning of his existence. Even when pack duties called, he found moments to connect with our son.

Our son. The phrase still felt foreign in my mind.

"Should I text him?" Fabian asked eagerly, already reaching for my phone.

"I'll do it," I said quickly, taking the phone before he could. The last thing I needed was Fabian scrolling through my recent exchanges with Roman.