Emma wrapped her arms around him tightly. "I'm gonna miss you."
"I'll miss you too, sweetheart," Alexander replied, holding her close. "But you'll be fine. Even better than fine. You'll have an awesome time."
Just then, a knock came at the door.
Everything felt normal.
Too normal.
Emma pulled back. "That must be him."
Alexander went to answer it.
Zayn was on the doorstep, looking effortlessly cool in dark jeans and a white button-up with the sleeves rolled up.
"Mr. Kane," Zayn said politely.
"Zayn," Alexander replied, moving aside to let him in. "Come on in."
Zayn stepped inside, spotted Emma, and grinned. "Ready?"
"Almost," Emma said.
Alexander looked at Zayn closely. "Make sure to take care of my daughter."
"Absolutely," Zayn said without thinking twice.
"She's never been this far away from me before," Alexander continued. "I've always gone with her everywhere. But now," he smiled a little, "she's heading out with her boyfriend instead."
