"Marriage is a big choice that grown-ups have to think about," I said. "But whether Mommy and Daddy are married or not, our family is strong enough to protect each other from anyone who tries to hurt us."
"Promise?"
"Promise," Mikel and I said together.
Emma finally settled down, her breathing evening out as she felt safe with us there. But just as I thought she was asleep, she spoke one more time.
"Mommy? Daddy?"
"Yes, baby?"
"If the sad lady tries to take me away... if she says I have to choose... I would choose both of you. Always both of you. Even if she promises me ice cream every day and all the toys I want."
That just broke me. Our five-year-old was ready to stand up to an adult with the loyalty of someone way older.
"You'll never have to choose, Emma," Mikel said, his voice
