word had come naturally.
No one had coached her.
No one had requested it.
Alex’s eyes filled instantly.
At that exact moment, Elena entered the apartment with her key.
She had heard it too.
Alex looked across the room at her.
Elena didn’t turn the moment into a celebration.
She simply gave him a small nod.
Permission.
Recognition.
Progress.
Alex picked up the blue track piece and clicked it into the place Clara had indicated.
Later that night, all four children fell asleep together in a pile of blankets and
