Elena entered the room, still carrying the little girl in her arms. The little one curled closer, her cheek pressed against Elena's shoulder, her breaths growing slower and deeper. The room was a picture of comfort and warmth; the soft colors, the delicate curtains, and the gentle lamplight made it feel like a world apart from the worries of earlier.
Lucas ensured that Elena and his daughter both were comfortable before saying to Elena, "If you need anything else, just let me know."
Elena nodded and Lucas took a look at his daughter before turning around to go to sleep. However, he felt a small, warm tug on his sleeve. He turned back to see Mila, her sleepy eyes wide and pleading, her tiny fingers wrapped around his hand. The soft lamplight caught the hopeful curve of her lips as she whispered, "Papa, can you sleep beside me too?"
