JARED froze mid-step when he heard the soft patter of small feet. He looked up just in time to see Jasmine's five-year-old energy radiating through the room. She clutched a Santa teddy bear tightly and rubbed one eye sleepily as she descended the stairs.
His heart leaped. Finally, someone.
"Good morning!" she chirped, her bright smile lighting up her face.
Jared’s frustration melted away instantly.
"Good morning, little one," he said warmly. "You are up early."
Karissa nodded enthusiastically.
"Mommy says I wake up too early, but I can’t help it! I don’t wanna miss anything!"
He chuckled, crouching slightly to her level.
"Well, lucky me. I have been waiting all morning to meet someone in this house. And look who shows up, a princess."
Karissa giggled, her small chee
