Caleb pov
"Do you want to rest for a bit?" Maya suggested, moving closer.
"Can Caleb read me the penguin book?" Tom asked, already grabbing it. "Please?"
I looked at Bella, asking permission without words. She hesitated for a long moment, then gave a small nod.
"I'd love to read to you," I said.
Tom climbed onto the couch and patted the spot next to him. "Sit here so I can see the pictures."
I sat down carefully, hyperaware of his small body so close to mine. He leaned against my arm without hesitation, completely trusting, and opened the book to the first page.
"This one," he said, pointing to an emperor penguin. "Start with this one."
I started reading, my voice rough at first but steadying as I went. Tom interrupted constantly with questions and observations, his excitement inf
