The dim nightlight made shadows dance on Emma's bedroom walls as I sat on her bed, stroking her hair. It was late, and she'd woken up crying about the sad lady for the third time since bedtime.
"Mommy, tell me about the dolphins," she mumbled, hugging her stuffed animal. "The ones that keep the scary fish away from their babies."
I was halfway through the story when Mikel knocked softly on the door. He stood there, hair messed up from sleep, in pajama pants and a t-shirt that fit him just right. My heart skipped a beat, even given everything going on.
"Is everything okay?" he asked quietly, noticing Emma's tears and my tired face.
"Another bad dream," I said. "Her third tonight."
He came right over and sat on the bed beside Emma, like he'd done it a million times. "Hey, princess. Want
