Ford was enjoying spending a little time with Anaisa. She took on an almost motherly air towards him, and his heart responded enthusiastically rather than resentfully.
She didn't baby him, like she sometimes did Daniel, but the tone of voice she used was one of unquestioned authority mixed with affection.
Ford grimaced as he began to piece together just how much the absence of a mother's love had shaped him. Probably nearly as much as the absence of a fatherly example.
He understood the family more and more as he interacted with them, and he understood himself a little better, too.
"Copper coin for your thoughts?" Anaisa prodded.
Ford blinked, and realized he'd been caught staring at the entrance where Mia had disappeared moments before.
"Ah…" He flinched.
