Nathaniel and Zane were already dressed and waiting in the living room.
"I'm so happy tonight!" Zane beamed, bouncing on his toes with excitement.
Nathaniel chuckled at his enthusiasm. "Really? It's just dinner. What is making you this thrilled?"
"Because you are coming with us. It's the first time you are taking us out to dinner, and that makes it special."
Nathaniel's smile faltered. The joy in his son's voice struck a deep chord in his chest.
For years, he had buried himself in work, using it as a shield to avoid Zara. In the process, he had unknowingly pushed his son away, too. He hadn't been there for Zane's school functions, or even simple moments when his son had just wanted to play or talk.
Guilt churned in his stomach. He wrapped his arms around Zane. "I'll spend more time with you now. We'll go out more often, all three of us."
Zane looked up at him, surprised and overjoyed. "Really, Daddy?"
Nathaniel nodded solemnly. "Yes."
