Her nerves felt frayed even now, and did until she saw their daughter disappear into the den, a wave of relief washing over her as she turned, offering her husband a gentle nuzzle along his neck before quickly swooping after their daughter. She would position herself at the mouth of it, drawing Jess in with the lure of a story. Stories were safe, fully in the imagination without the dangers of the world ever threatening to touch her baby girl… and a measure of gratitude filled her. She knew Nash could have fought it, argued with her.

She was simply glad he had given her this, and caved to her demands to keep their daughter sheltered just a little while longer. She knew it wouldn’t be possible to keep her in forever, but she could try… and try she would.