Morning

Otto and I emerged from our rooms at the same time.

We welcomed each other with a grin and a nod. I tiptoed past him to check on Thea. She sprang from her bed to join us. We shuffled towards the patio, dragging blankets and carrying stuffed animals. Clear skies, warm sun, and green grass met us as the doors swept open—an idyllic rendition of the tropical ecosystem. Thea and I sat on the couch. Otto peered through the railing. It was a beautiful morning.

We sat and listened to the birds.