She had amused her, bemused her at times, and even enraged her on the odd occasion, but she had never hurt her physically at all except through accident. It was something that still troubled her conscience because of the awful way she had treated Theo once it had occurred. She exhaled a sigh that was deep. Nikki toddled over to hug her neck and plant a sloppy kiss on her cheek.

“Mommy sad.” She had learned to speak to her only when she was facing her, and she saw her sweet words clearly.

“No, baby, I’m happy to be with you,” she reassured her, and she smiled brightly.

“I love...