Lily's point of view

I held Aiden's small hand securely as I brought him to the daycare entrance in the cool morning air. His enthusiasm was contagious, but I was preoccupied with other things, a maze of anxieties and workable ideas.

"Mommy, will you come get me early today?" With wide, eager eyes, Aiden looked up at me and asked.

I forced a grin as I leaned over to straighten his coat and replied, "Of course, sweetheart and be good."

He said with pride, "I'm always good!" and hurried off in the direction of the other kids.

With a knot in my stomach, I saw him join the group. For...