The morning had started fine, almost perfect, really. Nova had been nuzzling in my arms, her hair messy from sleep, teasing my heart the way she always did even without doing anything. It felt like any other Saturday morning in our quiet, comfortable world.

Until it didn’t.

Until her sleep broke into a sudden gasp, and she bolted for the sink.

“Nova?” I was beside her in seconds, rubbing her back as she threw up. Her skin was clammy, her forehead hot to the touch.

“I’m fine,” she ...