Isabella’s room was dimly lit, the soft glow of a night-light casting gentle shapes on the walls—stars and clouds drifting slowly across the ceiling. Her stuffed animals were lined up neatly on the bed, a familiar army of comfort she always insisted on arranging herself. The room smelled faintly of lavender from the clean sheets Marian had put.
Isabella sat cross-legged on the bed, hugging a plush rabbit tightly to her chest.
Daniel sat on the edge of the mattress, close enough that she could lean into him if she wanted. Marian stood a few steps away near the door at first, not wanting to overwhelm her, giving Isabella space to feel safe enough to speak.
For a long moment, no one said anything.
Finally, Isabella broke the silence.
Her voice was barely above a whisper.
“Mommy… Mommy g
