I pulled the blankets up to Theo’s chin, tucking him in snugly. He’d fallen asleep in the car on the way home, completely wiped out from the day’s excitement. His soft, even breathing filled the room, his small hand clutching the edge of the blanket.
I sat on the edge of the bed, smiling as I thought about how much fun we’d had at the pond. Theo had been fearless, sliding across the ice with Ethan by his side, his laughter ringing out with every near-miss or tumble. He’d started out clinging to both of us for balance, but by the end, he was wobbling around on his own, full of pride and joy.
Ethan had been so patient with him, bending down to help him back up every time he fell, giving pointers and cheering him on. I’d lost track of how many times Theo had shouted, “Watch me, Ethan!” and
