Inside Sophie’s room, my father turned another page.
Sophie’s favorite book was about a brave girl who crossed the sea. Dad had read it so many times that he hardly needed to look at the words anymore.
“Read the ocean part again, Grandpa,” Sophie said.
“You always ask for that part.”
“Because it’s the best one.”
Dad chuckled and began the chapter again.
I stood outside the doorway, pressing my hand over my mouth to keep them from hearing me cry.
Later, after Sophie had fallen asleep with her stuffed rabbit beneath her chin, Dad found me standing near the vending machines.
“She’s stronger than anyone I know,” he said.
“She shouldn’t have to be strong.”
Continue on the next page:
