Morning light slanted through the floor‑to‑ceiling windows of NovaGene's reinforced nursery ward. Leo Reid‑Jin toddled between soft play mats, his tiny fist grasping a plush music‑box toy that played the unfinished lullaby. His laughter—a bright, irrepressible sound—echoed like hope itself.
Nova Jin leaned against the doorframe, arms folded. In her tailored lab coat and leggings, she looked every bit the confident CEO. Yet her gaze lingered on Leo's unsteady steps, the way he paused mid‑stride to pluck at the melody. A familiar ache bloomed in her chest: fierce pride tinged with protective dread.
“Mommy!" Leo chirped, toddling toward her. He held up the music box. “More music?"
Nova knelt, lifting him into her arms. “Of course, sweetheart." She wound the key and set the box on the nearb
