NICK

THE MACULINEA ARION is the largest and rarest of the blue English butterflies. Little, blue-eyed Laine reminds me of one — fragile and delicate and inviting predators, with no idea of its beauty.

I collect butterflies.

Not in a put-the-lotion-in-the-basket style, just because I find them both fascinating and beautiful.

Unfortunately, they’re usually dead by the time I’m able to admire them now. Long gone are long summer days in the meadow, armed with a butterfly net and a spotter guide to British wildlife.

Laine’s breath is a wisp, her eyes sparkling for a moment as she makes her birthday wish.

I want to ask what a girl like...