cheek with two fingers.
Warm.
Real.
Alive.
“You were wanted every second, my boy.”
Behind us, the patio door slid open.
Mom walked outside carrying a bright gift bag.
“Dawn? Why are you standing out front? I brought the boys their presents.”
Then she saw Rowan.
My mother froze as though she were staring at a ghost.
“Dawn,” she whispered.
I moved between her and my son.
“Which boys, Mom?”
Her mouth opened.
Nothing came out.
“You brought gifts for Riley and Rex,” I said. “But you knew there were
