Eilika entered her chamber only to find Roman was waiting for her.
"Roman!"
"Mama!" He scrambled off the recliner, abandoning his storybook to run toward her. She knelt to catch him, her arms wrapping around his small frame while his tiny hands circled her neck.
"How was your day, Mama?" he asked, his eyes wide with curiosity as he tilted his head back to look at her.
"It was very good. Your father took me out for a visit," she replied, smoothing back his hair. "What about you? Did you enjoy your time at your cousin's home?"
"Yes, I had a lot of fun there. Grandma and I returned in the evening. I rested for a bit, then came here to wait for you," Roman explained.
"Forgive me for making you wait so long. Have you had your supper yet?" she asked.
"Yes, an hour ago," Roman answered. He looked up at her with a hopeful expression. "Mama, can I sleep here with you? I don't want to sleep alone tonight. Please?"
