TESSA
I slipped back into bed, the mattress dipping softly beneath my weight. The night was still, but my thoughts were anything but. I pulled the blanket up to my chin when a small stir beside me caught my attention.
Calla turned to me, her tiny fists rubbing against her eyes. “Where’s Mister?” she asked, her voice groggy but curious.
“He went home,” I whispered, brushing her hair back from her forehead.
“Aww,” Calla pouted, her little mouth turning downward. “I like him a lot.”
“I know,” I murmured, pressing a kiss against her temple. My chest ached at the simplicity of her words. “But he doesn’t belong here.”
Her eyes fluttered shut again, trusting me with her innocence. Within moments, her breathing evened out, causing me to sigh in relief. I stayed awake, listening to her breath
