Feeling defeated, I picked up the baby, and he stopped whimpering, breaking into a happy cackle and a grin. I cooed and rocked the baby in my arms, walking around the room without any particular destination in mind. Despite my best efforts, memories of the past were threatening to resurface.

"Grr! Garh!" The baby occasionally shrieked, his small eyes lighting up with joy as he looked up at me. I conversed with the baby, admitting that I was a damaged man who couldn't protect his ...