“Gravity wins,” Eli pronounced.

“Almost always,” Preston answered.

For the first time in many years, Preston laughed without thinking about who might be watching.

Naomi sat across the room with a book, observing without hovering.

When the hour ended, she stood and called the boys to put on their coats.

Theo gave Preston a solemn handshake.

“Can you come again?”

Preston looked to Naomi rather than answering for her.