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The late afternoon sun sparkles on the lake like scattered diamonds, making this moment even more perfect. My daughter Lola toddles along the water's edge, her tiny feet leaving impressions in the damp sand that the gentle waves quickly erase. Her dark curls bounce with each determined step, and I hover close behind, ready to catch her if she stumbles. She's getting more confident on her feet every day, but I still can't shake the instinct to protect her from every tumble.

"Dada!" she squeals, pointing at a seagull that's landed nearby. Her whole face lights up with that pure, unfiltered joy. Happiness grows in my chest, echoing hers. I didn’t know one man could be this blessed. I scoop her up, and she giggles as I lift her high above my head.