Miffy Reading Novels & Stories

In her room, we got into a routine—I helped her with pajamas while Mikel picked books, then we sat on her bed as she chose. "This one first," Emma said, giving Mikel a book about a baby elephant finding her family. "Then Mommy can read the dolphin one." As Mikel read, his voice gentle, I watched him. He was focused on Emma, using funny voices and answering her questions. He was so loving it made my heart ache. When it was my turn, I felt aware of him beside me on Emma's bed. Our shoulders touched as we leaned over the book, and I smelled his cologne and leaves from their walk.

“Wh—what a coincidence…” “I know, it’s amazing!” Tiffany brings her hands together softly in front of her mouth. “It’s just like The Poppols and Raptor Island, isn’t it?” “Uh, The Poppols…?” “You know, Morvia’s book…oh, you haven’t read it yet…? Makes sense, they don’t have it at the library…” “Huh? …Oh, right! Um, I mean, I really want to, but it’s hard, you know, to…” I stutter, trying to fudge my way through.