Nathan managed to get Ethan to sleep in just a few minutes. The small body went completely limp, warm and heavy against his shoulder. He let out a quiet breath of relief. At least one small mission had gone right tonight.

Moving with extreme care, Nathan entered the bedroom. Every step was controlled, nearly silent, so he would not wake the baby sleeping on his shoulder or the woman who was supposed to be resting on the bed. He lowered Ethan gently into the crib, made sure he was positioned ...