Zeke gently strokes Claire's hair, his voice soft. "Maybe someday, Princess. When you're a little older… then you can have a baby brother or sister."
Claire's smile fades a little. "Okay," she says quietly, nodding as if she understands.
Cassidy takes her tiny hands, her voice gentle.
"How about Mommy sings you a lullaby instead? It might help you fall asleep faster."
Claire glances at her, then at Zeke, before pulling the blanket up to her chest. "Okay," she whispers.
Cassidy takes a breath and begins to sing Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.
Zeke never knew Cassidy could sing like that. He finds himself staring, captivated. Her voice is soft, soothing, almost dreamlike.
He usually lies awake for hours. But with her voice filling the room, the tension in his body begins to melt. His body relaxes. It feels like she's singing to both of them.
He blinks, trying to stay awake. But when he looks at Claire, she's already fast asleep, quiet and peaceful, like a little angel.
