#Chapter 80: Is This Kindness?

I’m trying to convince myself that I’m not hiding in the bathroom, but I definitely am. It’s been an hour since I ran away from Neil, and I’m not ready to come out. That is, until I hear someone come into Mia’s room. I’m in the attached bathroom. If it’s Neil returning Mia, I don’t want to reveal myself after she’s already settled down and risk upsetting her. So I take a breath, gather my wilting courage, and open the door. Neil is slowly lowering Mia down into her crib. He’s moving slowly, treating Mia like she’s made of glass. It’s good. Mia is fragile. Her eyes are closed in restful slumber. Slowly, like he’s defusing a bomb, he removes his hands and lifts them back up to his chest. We both wait a moment, anticipating a sudden and loud awakening, but Mia stays asleep. I press a hand to my heart. I’m so proud of Neil. He’s come so far. I feel a little victory in this moment, since I’m the one who taught him. Another moment passes and nothing happens. Then Neil reaches for the