SIX YEARS LATER...

Jasmine's laughter-filled yell echoed through the house. "Amaya!!" She chased the giggling little girl, who darted down the hallway and into her parents room.

Amaya squealed with delight, "Daddy!" as she reached the bedside. Nicolai, startled awake, smiled warmly as he opened his arms. Amaya stretched out hers, begging to be lifted up.

Nicolai chuckled, familiar with this morning ritual. Ever since the twins started school, Amaya would resist leaving the house, prompting a ...