Lyvana climbed into his lap and buried her face in his neck. His strong arms wrapped around her, pulling her so close she could feel his heartbeat.
Then he kissed the top of her head and sighed.
"I'm sorry, baby," he said softly. "I'm sorry you had to deal with all that garbage today."
Lyvana looked up at him. "You fixed it, my love. And you caught him."
"I'll always fix it," he promised, his thumb gently rubbing her cheek. "No one gets to hurt you and walk away. But I hate that you had to feel even a second of that."
He leaned down and kissed her lips — a slow, deep kiss that made her forget every bad thing that had happened.
"Now," he murmured, his hands resting on her waist. "Forget about everything. You're with me now."
He signaled the driver, and the SUV drove off.
....
Mark arrived at the house, looking a mess. He was met at the door by Susan, who looked worried and angry.
"Where have you been all day?" she demanded. "Your phone has been off!"
