A Hand To Hold | Cglre |

Chapter 6: Shopping Spree

Evelyn's POV:

As the morning sun gently sifted through the curtains, casting a warm, serene glow across the room, I slowly opened my eyes, filled with a sense of purpose and quiet excitement for the day ahead. Beside me, Sophie and Ian lay asleep, the sight heartwarmingly picturesque. Sophie, in her childlike innocence, was curled up on her stomach, her little bum in the air and a thumb resting in her mouth. It was a scene so endearingly cute that it made my heart swell with affection. Observing her, I realized she might find comfort in a pacifier, but I was wary of introducing too many changes too quickly, especially considering the whirlwind of new experiences she was already navigating.

With a careful and quiet grace, I slipped out of the bed, keen not to disturb their peaceful slumber, and tiptoed my way to the kitchen. As I busied myself with breakfast preparations, my mind wandered through the events of yesterday. Each moment, from Sophie's tentative trust to her joyous laughter during the bath, and our nurturing bedtime routine, felt like vital threads in the tapestry we were weaving as a new family.

The sound of footsteps alerted me, and I turned to see Ian entering the kitchen, Sophie cradled sleepily in his arms. Both sported adorably tousled hair from sleep. "Good morning," I greeted them with a warm, maternal smile. "I'm making some breakfast. We have a big day ahead of us."

Ian, carrying a sleepy Sophie, nodded in agreement. "Yes, we have quite the journey to North Line to get everything this little sleepyhead needs." His voice was soft but carried an undercurrent of excitement and responsibility.

I prepared a hearty breakfast of scrambled eggs and bacon for Ian and me and blended a strawberry juice with protein for Sophie. However, when I offered it to her, she shyly buried her face in Ian's chest. It seemed our little one wasn't quite ready for morning interactions yet.

As we ate, we began planning the day. "We should make a list," I suggested. "We'll need clothes, personal items, a car seat, a stroller, some toys, maybe some books... And most importantly, we need to create a safe and happy space for her in her room." My mind was already racing with ideas and possibilities, each thought punctuated by the image of Sophie's contented face in her new home.

Ian, ever the practical one, was already thinking ahead. "We'll need to hire a truck," he mused. "Everything won't fit in the car." His voice carried a hint of excitement mixed with a sense of responsibility, typical of Ian when he's planning something important.

Breakfast was a quiet affair, with Sophie still nestled securely in Ian's arms. I noticed her reluctance to interact much, so I decided to gently encourage her. "Hey there, little one," I cooed softly, "how about trying some of this yummy juice before we head out? It'll keep that little belly of yours from feeling empty." To our surprise and concern, Sophie shook her head in refusal. A look of sudden fear flashed in her wide eyes, and in a rushed, anxious tone, she stammered, "I sorry sorry, I bad girl, no punish please."

My heart sank at her words. It was disheartening to see that such a small act as refusing a drink could instill such fear in her, a fear of punishment so deeply ingrained.

Rushing to reassure her, I said gently, "No, Sophie, you are not a bad girl; you are a good girl for voicing your opinions. We're proud of you for that." I stroked her hand softly, trying to convey safety and acceptance. "How about we nurse? I'd love to do it again with you if that's what you want." She looked at me, her eyes searching for reassurance, then glanced at Ian, perhaps seeking approval. Finding only support in his gaze, she slowly nodded.