*Michael*

Shelby’s pregnancy was only five weeks along, and I was already questioning my future parenting abilities when she leaned back against me in her seat in the plane. My first thought was that she should keep her seatbelt on in case there was turbulence, but I saw her yawn and nestle into my chest, curled with a blanket that looked so warm and cozy, that I couldn’t bring myself to say anything.

I just watched her doze off for a while, focusing on her calm, deep breaths ...