Layla clung tightly to the car seat, refusing to leave the car with Tristan. Worried about causing her any pain, he gave up trying to pull her out. Instead, he leaned down and said in a gentle, coaxing voice, "Come on out, please."

Ignoring him, Layla crossed her arms and turned her head away.

Tristan couldn't help but find her resistance adorable. With a smile, he spoke softly, "Do you want a reward?"

Surprised, Layla turned back to him, her wide eyes looking puzzled. ...