The next morning, I woke before my alarm.
For several seconds, I simply stared at the ceiling.
The velvet ring box Ethan had given me sat on my bedside table.
I hadn't opened it again.
I wasn't ready.
But I hadn't returned it either.
That had to mean something.
A soft knock came at my bedroom door.
"Mommy?"
Mia peeked inside, her hair still messy from sleep.
"Can I come in?"
"Always."
She climbed onto the bed and curled up beside me.
"Did you have another bad dream?"
I looked at her in surprise.
"How did you know?"
She shrugged.
"You looked sad when you woke up."
Children noticed everything.
I kissed the top of her head.
"I'm okay."
She studied me for a moment before smiling.
"You smile more now."
My heart softened.
"Do I?"
She nodded.
"Before Daddy came back, you
