The sound of rain tapped gently against the roof. The world outside was gray, but inside our small home, the air was warm.
Hikari sat on the couch, hugging her stuffed rabbit while watching the rain trickle down the window.
"Papa," she whispered, "it feels lonely when it rains, doesn't it?"
I walked over and sat beside her. "Yeah… it used to make me feel that way too. But then you'd always say something to cheer me up."
She turned her head, smiling softly. "And now I'll do the same again."
Before I could reply, she leaned into me, pressing her forehead against my chest.
My arms moved on their own, wrapping around her small frame tightly. She felt fragile, like I might break her if I let go.
"Hikari…" I murmured.
"Mm?"
I brushed her hair back gently and kissed her forehead. Her skin was warm, her scent faintly sweet.
Her eyes widened for a moment, then softened. "You used to do that too… whenever I cried. You said a forehead kiss would protect me."
Tears stung my eyes. I had said that. Years ago. And somehow, she remembered.
"I'll keep protecting you," I whispered, hugging her closer. "This time, I won't lose you again."
She closed her eyes, resting peacefully in my arms. "Then don't let go. Ever."
The rain kept falling outside, but within our embrace, there was only warmth—two hearts beating in rhythm, two souls reunited at last.
And for the first time in years, I felt whole again.