11

Over the next few months, Josephine quickly adapted to the rhythm of life here. Eleanor also started attending kindergarten nearby. They grew close with Milo as well. Perhaps because they came from the same country and spoke the same language, they found it easier to connect. Eleanor loved visiting their home. Milo always prepared plenty of toys and snacks for her, making her so engrossed in play she forgot all about leaving. One day after school, Eleanor, backpack in tow, hadn't even reached her own doorstep before she scampered over to Milo's house and knocked. “Uncle Milo, our school is organizing a spring outing, and parents have to come along. Can you be my dad?” By the time Josephine processed what she'd heard, it was too late to cover her mouth. Milo opened the door, crouched down in front of Eleanor, and smiled affectionately. “Did you ask your mom if it's okay?” Eleanor skipped over to Josephine, tilting her little head up. “Mommy, do you agree to let Uncle Milo be my daddy?”