OPHELIA “I love you so much, Alia. You’re the prettiest, smartest, and bravest child in the whole world,” I said, planting kisses on her face. “Really?” “Really.”She let out that giggle that I was sure made everyone’s heart flutter. Afterward, she suddenly paused halfway and began to sniff herself.“What’s wrong?”She looked up at me again. “Alia’s stinks.”I couldn’t help the smile that lengthened my lips. A few minutes ago, I never thought that I would smile again.“You don’t stink. Your dress is just dirty.”“I don’t like it.”Before I could reply, Nova swept to our side and bent her knees so that she was head to head with the child.“Auntie Nova,” she called as if she was only just realizing that Nova was in the room. “Come on, Alia. I’ll get you a change of clothes. You should also let your Mama rest.”“Is Mommy sick?”I quickly replied. “It’s just a headache. Once I sleep, it will be gone.”Reluctantly, she whispered. “I’ll let Mama sleep then.” She let Nova carry her and
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