In the parking garage, I lifted Elsie into the back seat of my SUV.

She weighed less than she had in the spring.

I drew the seat belt across her lap and snapped the buckle.

Micah climbed in next to her and set the cereal box on his knees.

Chloe phoned while I was checking the straps.

“Keep your phone charged,” she said.

“Delaney will call once she runs out of other moves.”

I tested the buckle twice.