Benjamin felt a rush of protective instinct wash over him. He gently pulled away and headed towards Penny's crib, where the sound of her cries grew louder. I followed closely behind, my anxiety palpable.
Penny's cries filled the air. Benjamin approached her crib and leaned over, his presence immediately calming her.
He picked her up, holding her close, and began to soothe her with gentle words and soft rocking. Slowly, Penny's cries subsided, her tiny body relaxing against him.
I watched, a mix of gratitude and admiration in my eyes. "I don't know what I'd do without you, Benjamin."
He glanced at me, his expression softening. "It's alright, my love."
As Penny drifted off to sleep, Benjamin placed her back in her crib and turned to me. I reached out and took his hand, leading him out of the room so we wouldn't disturb Penny's rest.
We walked back to the living room, the weight of the evening still heavy on us.