#Chapter 18: Home Away From Home

Iris I realize I haven’t felt genuine joy in days once I step into my cozy apartment back in Bo’Arrocan and hear the sound of Miles’ tiny voice. He comes barreling into the foyer, his dark hair flopping into his bright green eyes, and quite literally launches himself into my arms. “Mommy, you’re back!” he cries, burying his face in my neck. “I didn’t know you were coming back!” I grin and kiss his little face all over. “I wanted to surprise you, little wolf. Are you surprised?” “I’m so so so so so surprised!” he beams. Looking up, I see the babysitter standing in the doorway, her eyes wide with shock. There’s a wooden spoon covered in tomato sauce in her hand, evidence of dinner almost being ready. Scooping Miles up into my arms, I explain why I’ve returned on a whim while Miles chatters endlessly about his days without me. “I really missed you, Mommy,” Miles says, leaning his head on my shoulder as we all sit down for dinner around the small kitchen table. “Loo