Michael knelt down beside his daughter, gently taking the jar from Gloria’s hand. He examined it closely—there was no label, nothing to indicate what it contained. A wave of protectiveness washed over him as he placed the jar aside and picked up Emily, holding her close.

“Gloria, you know how carefully we monitor what Emily eats. Why didn’t you discuss this with me or the nutritionist?” His tone was stern, but beneath it was an edge of vulnerability, a father’s desperate need to ensure his child’s well-being.