Vivian The soft sound of Elise’s breathing was the only thing keeping me awake. I sat in the chair beside her crib, rocking her gently against my chest while fighting the exhaustion that had settled over me. She had refused to sleep for almost an hour, and every time I tried to place her down, she opened her eyes and began fussing.“Come on, sweetheart,” I whispered, brushing my lips against her forehead. “Mommy is tired, and you need to sleep.”Her tiny fingers curled around mine.I smiled despite how heavy my eyes felt.“You are determined to keep me awake tonight, aren't you?”Her breathing gradually became slower, and I felt her body relax against me.The door opened quietly.I looked up and saw my grandfather standing there.“Arthur,” I whispered.He smiled gently as he approached.“You should be sleeping too.”“I will. She just needs to settle.”He looked down at Elise.“Give her to me.”I hesitated.“She is finally asleep.”“And you can barely keep your eyes open.”“I am fine.
Last Updated : 2026-08-18 Read more