It’s immensely satisfying to watch the goosebumps on her skin disappear. To see her begin to move. A finger here, a toe there.
Eventually, her lips part and a tiny sigh escapes. It’s a small thing, a fragile thing. But it breaks the spell.
Suddenly, I’m struck full-force with the realization that this was not one of my better ideas.
Before I can find a way to extricate myself from the situation, her eyes blink open as if for the first time. “It’s okay, lastochka. You’re safe in this house. You’re safe with me.”
Her fingers curl around my arm.
I want to pull her closer. Hold her longer.
I want to make promises I have no business making.
I can’t afford to do any of that.
So, reluctantly, I get out of the tub and lift her into my arms again. By the time I’ve toweled her dry and dresse
