Isabella didn't appreciate that at all.

She understood Ethan's intentions were good.

But every child naturally craved snacks and junk food sometimes.

"He's still little," she insisted. "An occasional treat won't hurt."

Ethan narrowed his gaze at her.

"Spoiling a child isn't beneficial," he stated firmly. "You'll ruin him without realizing it."

Isabella pressed her lips together.

Arguing further felt pointless.

The dining room atmosphere grew noticeably tense.

Ethan broke the silence after a moment.

"There's an event in three days," he announced. "You'll accompany me as my date."

Isabella looked surprised but nodded.

"Alright," she agreed quietly.

Nightfall brought peace to Hawthorne Residence.

Ethan remained in his study, surrounded by documents.

"Mr. Blackwood..." A small voice interrupted the quiet.

Ethan frowned and turned toward the door.

Liam stood there rubbing his sleepy eyes.

He was barefoot, clutching his bear-patterned pajamas.

"Mr. Blackwood..." the little boy murmured again, swaying slightly.

Ethan set his papers aside.

He studied the small figure approaching him.

An unexpected tenderness swelled within his chest.

He stood and moved around his desk without thinking.

"Why are you awake?" he asked, his voice softening instinctively.

Liam was still half-asleep.

He lunged forward and hugged Ethan's leg.

He buried his face against Ethan's trousers. "I want Mommy..."

Ethan looked down at the boy and relaxed.

He bent and effortlessly lifted Liam into his arms.

The child's small body felt soft and warm.

He carried the faint, sweet scent of milk.

An unfamiliar emotion surged through Ethan's heart.

He couldn't quite name the feeling.

He carried Liam out of the study toward the master bedroom.

Isabella slept soundly inside, unaware.

Ethan carefully tucked the boy beside her.

Liam immediately turned and snuggled into Isabella's arms.

His tiny fist clutched her pajama shirt.

Ethan lingered, watching them.

A gentle smile touched his lips.

He turned off the bedside lamp.

He lay down on the other side of the bed.

His arm stretched over Isabella, cradling Liam's side.

He gathered them both into a large, protective embrace.

The room fell silent except for their steady breathing.

Ethan glanced at the sleeping mother and son.

A profound sense of peace blossomed within his chest.

Morning arrived.

Sunlight streamed through the curtains in bright, narrow beams.