Two years after losing my wife Sarah, I never imagined I’d find love again, let alone someone who could connect with my daughter Sophie. But then came Amelia—bright, kind, and patient enough to ease the weight of grief I’d been carrying. Sophie, at just five years old, adored her almost instantly, and I thought life might finally be settling into something good.

I’ll never forget the first day Sophie met Amelia at the park. Sophie had been reluctant to leave the swing set, insisting on “just five more minutes.” But when Amelia, with her easy smile and sundress catching the sunlight, offered to push her higher, Sophie’s little face lit up. It was the beginning of something I dared to hope could last.