"Look at this, Lucas," Martha cooed, her voice filled with affection. "Isn't it the most interesting thing ever? You want to hold it, don't you?" 

Lucas giggled, his tiny fingers finally managing to wrap around the rattle. He shook it clumsily, the soft jingling sound making him laugh even more. 

Beside them, Valeria watched with a serene expression, her heart warmed by the sight of her two favorite people. She leaned back against the headboard, the cushions behind her providing comfortable ...