Later we opened presents together.

Paisley helped Chloe untie a stubborn ribbon.

Harper built a fort from the wrapping paper.

Camilla sat beside me with a small box in her hands.

Inside was a printed copy of the first drawing Chloe had made after their aquarium meeting: three jellyfish, one smiling shark, and a rabbit swimming in enormous flippers.

“I kept the original,” Camilla said.

“This one’s for you.” I laughed.