Ryan stepped off the bus and made his way to Serena’s apartment, the late afternoon sun casting long shadows on the pavement. Finals had him drained, but something inside him insisted he see her, and more importantly, see Rory.

Rory, barely a year old, crawled and toppled a few times toward him, arms stretched out. His tiny face broke into a grin as he spotted Ryan.

“Ryan!” Serena laughed, coming over. “You’re just in time. Rory’s been asking for his uncle all morning.”

Ryan’s heart melted. “Hey, little man,” he said softly, kneeling down. Rory didn’t hesitate. He crawled over and wrapped his tiny arms around Ryan’s neck.

Holding Rory,...