The room was dimly lit, a lamp on in the corner casting soft shadows on the walls. I carried Giulia in my arms, feeling the weight of exhaustion in her little body, but also the quiet warmth of her trust in me. She snuggled into my chest with her head resting on my shoulder, as she had done since she was a baby, and sighed. That soft sound pierced right through me.
I placed her carefully on the bed, pulled the covers gently, and sat beside her, stroking her fine hair. She was quiet, her eyes half-closed, but fighting sleep.
"It's okay, princess," I murmured. "You can sleep peacefully. Daddy is here."
She opened her eyes slowly and smiled, a small smile, but full of love.
"Will you stay with me until I fall asleep?"
"Of course," I answered, adjusting the pillow under her head. "Always.
