Ethan couldn't take it anymore. He laughed, his whole body shaking as he wiped tears from his eyes. "Well, I guess you're gonna be the prettiest girl in the world then."
She grinned, her tiny face lighting up. "Yes! I'll be the prettiest!"
He watched her, his laughter dying down to a soft chuckle. He glanced out the window, the evening sun casting a golden glow over the room. He felt a warmth in his chest that had nothing to do with magic or power.
He reached out, ruffling her silver curls. "Thanks, kid. You're doing great."
She giggled, leaning into his touch. "I'll get stronger, so I can protect big brother too!"
Ethan smiled a genuine, warm smile. "Yeah. I'll be counting on you."
He knew he was being illogical and impractical in letting this kid of unknown origin stay with him. If anything she was most certainly going to bring trouble to his doorstep.
