“I’m happier,” I said.

“And I think I’m getting better at noticing it.”

Grace smiled.

“Me too.”

After breakfast, we walked to the lake.

The water was restless and silver, with white sails scattered near the horizon.

Grace raced ahead to count gulls on the breakwater while I carried our jackets.

I watched her step carefully between stones, then stop to wave when she reached the end.