91. Marry Her

Riley’s heart twisted as she saw her father, Alexander, standing there with open arms. His face lit up with a smile, genuine relief evident in his eyes. For a moment, she hesitated, guilt gnawing at her insides. She felt like she was betraying him by even being in the same room after everything that had happened with River. But she forced a smile and stepped forward, allowing herself to be enveloped in her father’s embrace. His familiar scent, a mix of expensive cologne and the faintest hint of cigar smoke filled her senses, bringing with it a sense of comfort she hadn’t realized she was missing. “My little girl is home,” Alexander murmured, holding her close. His voice was filled with emotion, the tough exterior he usually presented to the world softening as he held his daughter. Riley closed her eyes, letting herself be comforted by the warmth of her father’s embrace, even though she felt like she didn’t deserve it. “I’m home, Dad,” she whispered, her voice thick with unshed tears. A