Chapter Eighty: Gown

"Hush hush, my sweet..."

I whisper to the bundle of warmth in my arms that smells of powder and milk.

The bundle opens its little hands as if trying to reach me, and melty warmth pools in my chest.

They offer a toothless grin before their little mouth produces sounds I do not understand, yet I wish I could record every vowel in a secret archive or press my ear to their little chest just to feel their intention.

"Ready for the party?"

Violet utters as she walks in, arms reaching for the bundle that proceeds to throw up on me.

“Oh no…”

I mutter, but just as quickly, their smile makes their little accident on my expensive dress cute.

“Okay, gimmie, while you go change, he might come personally if you miss this flight.”

I almost refuse. I want to stay home in my pyjamas, watching the little mass push everything into their mouth or open their eyes wide enough to take in everything they wish to…but Violet has a point.

I am already late, the flight will take two hours, and I will ar