Chapter 12

Mia's POV

The sun was just beginning to set, casting a warm golden glow across the room as I sat on the couch, flipping through a magazine. It had been a peaceful afternoon, with Nathaniel and I enjoying a lazy day at home, relishing in the simplicity of being together. But little did I know that our tranquility was about to be shattered by an unexpected visitor.

As I heard the sound of the doorbell, my heart skipped a beat. We weren't expecting anyone, and the thought of an unannounced guest sent a shiver of apprehension down my spine. Nathaniel must have sensed my unease because he reached out and squeezed my hand reassuringly before making his way to the door.

I held my breath as the door swung open, revealing a figure I hadn't laid eyes on in years. It was my father, Richard. His silver hair was slightly disheveled, and there was a weariness etched into his face. He looked older, weathered by time and the weight of his own secrets.

"Mia," he said, his voice filled with a mixture o