"Mommy will lie on the bed. Is that okay... Lorrie?"
Elsie gently stroked Lorianne's head, hoping her words would cheer the little one. Even though she didn't cry but, the evident sorrow in Lorianne's voice tugged at her heartstrings.
"Mommy will?"
Lorianne pulled backward, her face beaming in happy surprise. Elsie smiled bitterly at the sight of her daughter's glossy eyes.
"Yes. I will."
Elsie unconsciously held her breath for a second. Releasing Lorianne from her hug, she slowly stood up and turned toward the bed. Her eyes collided with Nathaniel's who was sitting up.
"Elsie... I'll make more room for you," said Nathaniel, almost stuttering. He scooted backward, his back touching the hanging shelves of the bed frame.
"Thank you."
Elsie lightly scratched her face, feeling the heat emanating from her cheeks. She laughed in helplessness when Lorianne was openly staring at her and Nathaniel.
