*Noland’s POV*

I stand by the living room window, wrapped in a robe, fingers hovering over my phone, when the sound of footsteps echo through the hallway. Carol appears, guiding Sussie into the room with a smile. I smile at the sight of my daughter; it's been far too long since we last saw each other.

"Daddy!" Sussie exclaims, her eyes lighting up as she rushes toward me.

"Sweetheart, what a lovely surprise," I say, pulling her into a warm embrace. "I've ...