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I listened for half an hour as Ryan poured his heart out. He described nightmares, replaying the delivery room over and over. He admitted avoiding skin-to-skin contact with Lily, afraid his anxiety would transfer to her.

“I don’t want her to sense my fear,” he said. “Babies can feel that stuff. I’d rather keep my distance until I can be the father she deserves.”

The leader nodded. “What you’re doing takes strength. But healing isn’t something you have to do alone. Have you thought about including Julia?”

Ryan shook his head. “She almost died. The last thing she needs is to worry about me. She’s been through enough.”

My heart shattered. He was carrying this burden alone.