Zara and Nathaniel sat up quickly, exchanging a look of surprise. Zane was already dressed, his little shirt tucked in neatly, hair combed, shoes polished, ready to go to school.
"When did you wake up?" Zara asked, stunned. "Why didn't you call me?"
"When I woke up, I saw you were sleeping next to me," Zane replied. "I was so happy. Mommy and Daddy were with me last night. I didn't want to wake you up. So I got ready all by myself."
Zara's heart melted instantly. "Oh, my sweetheart, come here," she said, spreading her arms.
Zane dashed to her and hugged her tightly. She held him close. "You have grown up so fast," she mumbled. "You got ready on your own…"
She pulled back slightly and asked, "Did you eat anything?"
Zane nodded. "Mrs. Jules gave me toast and scrambled eggs."
"Mmm, your favorite," Zara said, rubbing her nose gently against his, making him giggle.
"But I like the chocolate cupcake you bake the most," he added.
