Eliana didn't hesitate. She wrapped her arms around her daughter, intending to help her get dressed, but stopped when she saw the little one had already dressed herself.

She said softly, "How about this, Hopey? Since you like playing here, you can stay here with grandma. Daddy and mommy will go to work, and when you miss us, we'll come visit you. How does that sound?"

Hopey’s lips puckered as she asked, "But mommy and daddy won't abandon Hopey, right?"

Samuel leaned down ...