READER SHOUT OUT: This chapter is dedicated to every first-time mother, ever.
I see you. I am you. We've all been there.
*****
ELIA
Elia swaddled the drowsy Elreth and placed her gently in the basket, praying her strong and playful daughter wouldn't decide this was the night to refuse sleep, and instead become a lion cub, easily capable of crawling out of baskets, beds, or anything beyond an outright cage.
"Please, sweetie… Mommy really needs a night off. At least… three or four hours, okay? Agreed?"
Elreth yawned with her adorable, tiny mouth—that could be the gateway for an incredibly big noise—but cooed quietly, her eyes beginning to close.
