Spectrum of Red. [LISRENE]

30

Lily's hearing machine rested snugly behind her ear, a gentle reminder that she still needed it, but she was happy, oblivious to anything but the music blasting from the TV.

She twirled and stomped her little feet, attempting to copy the moves of her mama's songs, her tiny body full of pure joy.

Lisa watched her from the kitchen, mixing batter for Lily's favorite chocolate cupcakes, and her heart swelled.

Every time Lily glanced at her with those wide, pleading eyes, Lisa's resolve melted.

"Lily, wait for these."

Lisa called softly as she set the tray in the oven.

But Lily had other plans.

She padded into the kitchen, tugging on Lisa's pants to get her attention. Lisa crouched down, smiling.

"Dada! I missed Mama! When is Mama coming home?"

Lily asked, her little voice full of concern.

Lisa lifted her gently, brushing her cheek against Lily's hair.

"Mama is busy working, sweetie. She is making a new video for you so you can listen and dance to a brand-new song. She'll be here tonight, I promise."

Lily nodded solemnly, then tilted her head.

"Can I sleep with both of you?"

"Of course you can, my love,"

Lisa replied, putting her down as the timer beeped for the cupcakes. They were golden and chocolatey perfection.

Sitting together at the table, they shared the cupcakes, giggling with every bite.

Lily carefully saved a little piece for her mama, and Lisa's heart leapt; she was so happy to see the love Lily already felt for Irene.

"Excited for school?"

Lisa asked, brushing crumbs from Lily's mouth with a tissue.

Lily nodded vigorously, eyes sparkling as she watched TV, still chewing her cupcake.

Night fell, and Lisa approached Lily. "Bedtime, princess," she said softly.

Lily's bottom lip jutted out.

"I want to sleep with both Mama and Dada!"

Lisa chuckled.

"Mama will be late tonight, sweetie, but—"

"No! I'll wait!"

Lily insisted.

As the clock ticked toward midnight, Irene finally returned home, moving quietly through the house.

She froze when she saw them: Lisa and Lily asleep on the couch, Lily sprawled across Lisa's torso, a tiny dribble on Lisa's t-shirt, and Lisa's hand clutching her protectively.

Irene's heart melted.

She pulled out her phone and captured the moment before gently nudging Lisa awake. Both Lisa and Lily stirred, eyes blinking sleepily.

"Mama!"

Lily jumped into Irene's arms immediately.

"I missed you!"

Irene became a puddle, hugging her tightly.

"I missed you, too, baby," she whispered. Then she scooped Lily up to carry her to bed, Lisa following closely behind.

They settled in together. Lily kissed both Mama and Dada goodnight, snuggling her head into Irene's chest while her small hands clutched at Lisa's shirt. Lisa and Irene exchanged chuckles, leaning into each other for a soft, loving kiss before drifting off to sleep.