ONE YEAR LATER…
“Bedtime, munchkin,” Nicola said from the living room doorway.
Iris, who was lying on the floor, watching cartoons, jumped up and ran toward the door.
“Come on, Olaf,” she said to the dog following her religiously almost everywhere.
“Did you pick out what you want to take to show and tell tomorrow?” Nicola asked as they made their way upstairs.
“Yes, I did,” Iris replied. “I’m taking the seashell Aunt Daph gave me.”
“That’s a wonderful idea! I believe everybody will like that. They can put it to their ears and listen to the ocean,” Nicola exclaimed, and took her little hand in hers. “Let’s say goodnight to your daddy. He’s in his office.”
They stopped outside Blake’s office, and Iris knocked on the door.
“‘Come in,’” Blake called out.
Iris opened the door and ente
