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I laugh. “Starving, actually. And I couldn’t pass up the chance to see your dad’s famous grilled cheese skills in action.”

Chloe giggles, grabbing my hand and tugging me towards the kitchen. “Come on, you can help me set the table.”

As we enter the kitchen, Chloe opens all the cupboards and pulls out enough tableware to host a banquet. Dan stands at the stove, heating a large cast-iron skillet, then takes ingredients out of the fridge.

Chloe clearly relishes the responsibility and is meticulous with her placement of dinnerware. We set the table together and I have to admit, it looks great.

With a flourish, Chloe pulls out a chair for me. “Madam.”

“Thank you.” I take a seat and look over to see how Dan’s getting on.

“Smells amazing,” I comment, inhaling deeply. “What’s your secret ingredient?”

Dan grins, tapping the side of his nose. “Ah, now that would be telling. Let’s just say it’s a family recipe, passed down through generations of Rhodes grilled cheese connoisseurs.”

Chloe rolls her eyes, handing me a napkin. “He puts garlic powder in the butter,” she stage-whispers. “It’s not that big a deal.”

“Hey!” Dan protests, waving his spatula in mock offense. “Don’t go giving away all my culinary secrets, missy.”

As we laugh and joke, pouring glasses of ice-cold lemonade, I feel a sense of warmth and belonging that I haven’t experienced in longer than I can remember. The easy banter, the genuine affection between father and daughter—it’s a glimpse into a life I never knew existed and a far cry from my own relationship with my absent, now dead, father.

And as we sit down to eat, the golden, gooey sandwiches almost too hot to handle, I don’t think I can remember eating a late-night snack that tasted so good.

I take another bite and let out a satisfied sigh. “Okay, I’ll admit it—this really is something special. You’ve mastered the fine art of bread and cheese.”

Dan chuckles, a little bashfully, at the compliment. “I’ll take that as high praise. It’s one of the few things I can actually cook without burning it to a crisp.”

As we dig in, Chloe’s face lights up with excitement. “Oh, Rachel! Guess what? I’m going to be in the ‘Sing!’ Talent Competition next month!”

“Wow, that’s fantastic, Chloe!” I exclaim, genuinely impressed. “What will you be performing?”

Chloe beams, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. “I’m singing ‘Brave’ by Sara Bareilles. It’s all about being true to yourself and not being afraid to speak up. I really, really like the song!”

I nod, understanding the significance of the song, if a little surprised that it’s her own choice, given the song is almost as old as her. “That’s a powerful message, Chloe. I’m sure you’ll be amazing.”

“I’ve been practicing every day,” she gushes, her grin wide and infectious. “I really think I have a shot at winning this year.”

Dan beams with pride, his love for his daughter shining through in every glance, every word of encouragement.

Dan reaches over, squeezing his daughter’s hand. “I’ve never seen her so dedicated to anything before.”

Chloe’s enthusiasm is contagious, and I find myself caught up in her excitement. “I’d love to hear you sing sometime. If you’re comfortable with that, of course.”

She grins, nodding eagerly. “Definitely! I could use all the feedback I can get.”

I’m impressed by Chloe and love the way she pursues her passion with such fervor. It reminds me of my own childhood dreams, the ones I never had the chance, or encouragement, torealize, and that are now long since buried beneath the weight of adult responsibilities and expectations.

Dan claps his hands. “Now, come on, bed.”

“But we have a guest.” Chloe groans.

“Nice try. Up.”

“Are you gonna come up and listen to the story?” Chloe asks.

I blink. “Oh, uh… I?—”

I glance at Dan, feeling instantly awkward. This istheirthing, their routine, and I suddenly feel like I’m intruding on something private. Like I’ve somehow stumbled too deep into their world.