A Hand To Hold | Cglre |

Chapter 16: Neighbors

Evelyn's POV

I woke up to the soft sound of Sophie's breathing beside me. The morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a gentle glow across the room. I watched her for a moment, taking in her delicate features - her rosy cheeks, her long eyelashes, and the soft curls of her golden hair spread across the pillow. Overwhelmed by love and gratitude, I was determined to make the most of our day together, even though Ian was away.

As the morning unfolded, Sophie and I enjoyed our usual routine. We shared a light breakfast of scrambled eggs and fruit, then spent some time coloring and playing with her favorite stuffed animal, Blue. Sophie's tiny hands gripped the crayons with determination, her tongue poking out slightly as she concentrated on her artwork. These moments were precious, and I cherished every second with her.

I couldn't help but notice that Sophie was unusually quiet today. Her big blue eyes often drifted to the door, as if expecting Ian to walk through it at any moment. I tried to distract her with games and stories, but it was clear her thoughts were elsewhere.

"Mama, where's Dada?" Sophie finally asked, her small voice filled with uncertainty. My heart sank. I knew this moment would come, and we had talked about it yesterday, but I knew it wouldn't be long before it came up again.

"Dada had to go away for a little while, sweetheart. He's working, but he'll be back soon."

Sophie's brow furrowed as she processed the information, her little fingers fidgeting with the hem of her dress. "But why, Mama? Why Dada not here?"

"He had to take care of something important," I explained gently, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "But he loves you very much, and he'll be back as soon as he can."

Sophie's eyes filled with tears, her bottom lip quivering. "Dada gone. Dada no come back."

My heart ached at the sight of her distress. "No, sweetheart, Dada will come back. He promised, remember?"

She shook her head, her tears spilling over. "No! Dada gone!" Her cries grew louder, her tiny body shaking with sobs.

I gathered Sophie into my arms, holding her close and whispering soothing words. "Shh, it's okay, baby. It's okay. Dada loves you so much. He'll be back soon, I promise."

But nothing seemed to calm her. Her cries grew more hysterical, and I felt helpless, knowing that my words alone couldn't reassure her. Desperate, I reached for my phone and dialed Ian's number. After a few rings, he answered, his voice filled with concern.

"Evelyn, is everything okay?"

"It's Sophie," I said, trying my best to stay calm. "She's really upset. She thinks you're not coming back."

"Put her on the phone," Ian said immediately.

I handed the phone to Sophie, who clutched it tightly, her sobs subsiding a little as she heard Ian's voice.