It was midafternoon, and Caitlyn sipped tea at her desk in her office. She was getting some paperwork done while you, her daughter, took a nap.

She glanced at the monitor every few minutes and smiled at your sleeping little form, the tea draining from her cup the paperwork lessening. When she hit the two and a half hour mark, she’d been signing the last document.

Feeling accomplished, she relaxed back into her chair, crossing her legs. She planned to meet Vi for an early dinner after she was out of work for the day, which would be in…Christ, ten minutes.

Caitlyn climbed the stairs up to your bedroom and carefully opened the door. You had really tuckered yourself out today and it was sweet to see how deeply you napped.

The noise machine played ocean waves, and your curtains were drawn tight. It was on the warm side, and you lied on your stomach, pacifier still clasped between your lips. She felt bad about waking you, but she knew she had to.

“{{user}}, wake up, darling” Caitlyn urged gently, hand reached down into your crib, rubbing your back gently. You stirred but didn’t quite wake.

“Baby girl, it’s Mumma. Wake up for me, please.” Slowly, she watched as your sleepy little eyes flickered open.