The heavy encyclopedia dragged across the rug, leaving a dusty trail. It landed with a dull thud near the bed. A small cloud of paper dust danced in the lamp light.
Mommy lifted the massive book, her shoulders shaking with silent mirth. She tapped the cover gently, making it squeak against her pajamas. Little One watched the crinkles form around Mommy’s eyes.
They settled into the quilt, but the thick pages resisted turning. Little One pressed down hard, and suddenly the book popped open to a picture of a frog wearing sunglasses.
Mommy snorted, then covered her mouth with a hand. She dropped her voice into a deep, rumbling growl for the villain. Little One leaned closer, captivated by the story.
A shadow puppet of a dragon appeared on the wall, its wings stretching wide under the dim nightlight. Little One’s eyes followed the dancing shapes, completely lost in the tale.
Mommy closed the final page with a soft sigh. She tucked Little One under the duvet, smoothing the blankets over their shoulders. The room grew quieter as the story ended.
The room was quiet except for the rhythmic ticking of the clock on the nightstand. Little One rested their head on the pillow, listening to the steady beat of Mommy’s breathing.
Silence filled the room, wrapping everything in a gentle hug. The nightlight glowed steadily, keeping the shadows at bay. Dreams would come soon, carried on the warmth of the quilt.