ZACH’S POV

The next morning, I woke up early to make breakfast for Joan. She came down the stairs, still sleepy-eyed but smiling. "Good morning, Daddy," she said, climbing into her chair.

"Good morning, princess. Did you sleep well?" I asked, setting a plate of pancakes in front of her.

"Uh-huh," she nodded, digging in. "Are we going to the park again today?"

"Not today, sweetie. We have a visitor coming this afternoon," I said, watching her carefully.

"Who?" she asked, her eyes wide with curiosity.

"Mommy's coming to see you," I said gently.

Joan's face lit up. "Really? When?"

"After lunch," I said, smiling at her excitement. Despite everything,...