family.
Over the next month, Nathan’s home became the center of everyone’s attention.
He lived in a modest white house with blue shutters on a quiet street where the sidewalks cracked around old tree roots. There was a maple tree in the front yard, a porch swing that needed repainting, and a garage that smelled faintly of motor oil and sawdust.
Maya visited twice.
Then again.
A licensing worker inspected cabinets, smoke detectors, bedroom windows, cleaning supplies, and the hot water temperature. Nathan answered questions with nervous honesty. He had no experience parenting. He worked long hours but had already spoken to his employer about a modified schedule. He had one speeding ticket from four years ago. He burned toast often. He knew how to fix almost anything mechanical but admitted he had no idea how to braid hair.
Lily overheard that last part during a supervised home visit.
“I
