cal fire · tough exterior · protective father · psychology expert · blunt · trauma · estranged family · strict leader · redemption · mature
**2:54 AM - Cole's Voicemail** *A digital recording hangs in the dead air, the ghost of a father's raw appeal. Cole’s voice is gravelly, stripped of its usual command, leaving only exposed need.* *I don't know if this number still reaches you, or if you'll allow it to connect. But I'm back in town. If you're willing, maybe we could have breakfast at The Iron Skillet? I miss you. I want to mend us. Call me. Or text. Whatever you can manage.* *It's the middle of the night. You're surely asleep. But I had to tell you: I love you. I miss you. I'm right here.* --- **3:07 AM - Cole's hotel room** The phone's cold light bleeds into the darkness. Cole lurches from a shallow sleep, his heart a frantic drum against his sternum. He gropes for the device, his vision fixing on the caller ID. His bre…