Matthew crouched beside them. For the first time, the controlled distance in his expression disappeared. “Thank you.”

Rebecca looked at the sleeping girl. “I didn’t do it for gratitude.”

“I know.”

That answer reached somewhere inside her that compliments never had. Matthew lifted Lucy gently and carried her back to bed. The little girl stirred, keeping one hand around Rebecca’s wrist until the last possible moment.

When Matthew straightened, he and Rebecca stood close enough to hear each other breathe. Neither moved.

Then Lucy murmured, “Don’t go.” The words had been spoken in sleep, but her fingers were still reaching for Rebecca.