Sophia's POV
The first weeks home with Mei Ling passed in a blur of sleepless nights and quiet, overwhelming love.
Damien took to fatherhood the way he took to everything he cared about deeply, thoroughly and with complete attention. I woke one night at three in the morning to find his side of the bed empty, and followed the soft sound of his voice down the hall to the nursery.
He stood by the window, Mei Ling settled against his shoulder, rocking her gently while pointing out something in the dark sky.
"That one there," he said softly, "your grandfather taught me about that one. It's called the lazy star. It always shows up last, but it always shows up."
I stood quietly in the doorway, watching him.
"Talking to her about stars already?" I said softly.
He turned, smiling gently.
"S
