Grace snuggled into her arms, her small body relaxing against Brittney's. "Mama," she murmured, her voice filled with a sleepy contentment. "I missed you."
Brittney closed her eyes, burying her face in Grace's hair, inhaling her familiar scent.
She felt a sense of peace for the first time in a long time.
But she knew it wouldn't last.
The world was cruel and unforgiving, and danger was always lurking around the corner.
She had to protect Grace, to keep her safe, no matter the cost.
Even if it meant not being with her.
She opened her eyes, chest aching.
She was here with her for now. She would focus on that.
Minutes later, she could tell that her daughter had fallen back asleep.
'She must be tired…’ she thought, a little disappointed that she wouldn't get to talk to her longer.
