Chapter Nine RyleighAlexei’s still at practice. I’ve showered, straightened the apartment, and am now sitting on the floor playing with Ella. On one of his last shopping trips, Alexei picked up a couple of stuffed animals and a baby rattle, and I’m having a blast making this little baby smile, and getting such a kick out of the cute noises she makes as she plays.
Ella brings the stuffed pig to her face, gripping it in both chubby hands, and I smile down at her. I can’t believe I’ve had her for almost two weeks already. I’m starting to feel a little more sure of myself around Ella, and a part of me knows that that assurance is because of Alexei and his confidence around babies. He calms me . . . centers me, even. He makes me think that maybe, just maybe I can do this.
As I look down at El
