I look over at Samuel, beaming with delight, and my heart warms. My eyes dart to Laila sitting next to him, the look of devastation no longer shadowing her features. She's leaning close to her brother, face lit up with a smile, no doubt influenced by his enthusiasm. I just hope it's not one-sided.

"Laila," I call out to her, "how are you feeling about all this?"

She looks up at me, expression clearing as if not wanting her eagerness to show. "I'm fine, I think," she admits, ...