Darius found Zahra with Zavier singing together. Zahra twirled around with the boy. Zavier filled the room with soft giggles and bright smiles.

Darius leant against the doorframe. He watched them for a moment. In another life, Zahra would have been his.

His heart ached at the thought.

“Wanna join us?” Zahra stopped turning to look at Darius , finally noticing him.

“You can join our band, if you want,” she added. Zavier nodded happily. It had been a long time since Darius saw the child so open and simply happy.

“I cannot dance,” Darius chuckled softly. He joined in. Zavier instantly reached for him.

The boy settled comfortably against...