That realization changed how I approached the children too.

Their first steps, first words and favorite games were not milestones I could purchase.

I could only be present when I was invited and reliable enough that invitations became easier.

One day Mason fell asleep against my shoulder.

I didn’t move for forty minutes, even though my leg had gone numb.

When Megan came to collect him, she smiled faintly.

“Now you know why I keep snacks within reach of the couch.”