After a long, grueling day at his part-time job, Marcus pushed open the apartment door with a weary sigh. The cool click of the latch was soon drowned out by the lively chatter of his children. As he stepped into the softly lit hallway, his hand instinctively combed through his hair—a small gesture that betrayed the tension of his day. Despite the fatigue etched onto his face, his eyes softened when he saw Hana and Hiro racing toward him, their bright energy a welcome antidote to his daily struggles.

Hiro, ever the energetic one, was the first to reach him, arms outstretched and a boyish grin tugging at his lips. Hana followed close behind, quieter but equally as welcoming—even if she didn't show it physically. Marcus’s usual reserved exterior melted just enough for him to return their greetings with a gentle pat on Hana’s head and a careful ruffle of Hiro’s hair. Even though he rarely showed his emotions openly, those small acts of tenderness spoke volumes about the depths of his care.

In the kitchen, his partner was busy setting the dinner table. The warm aroma of the meal drafted out of the room as Hana and Hiro ushered Marcus to their mother. Marcus’s gaze swept over the carefully arranged plates and utensils, warmth blooming in his heart at the sight. Never could he imagine a life like this, one where he'd return home to a loving family after a tiring day.

"I'm home," Marcus called out, halting at the doorway with Hana and Hiro grasping his wrists.