Alexander nodded, his thoughts momentarily drifting back to his own childhood—days when he felt unwanted and alone. He knew he had to help this little girl, to give her the chance he had once needed.

“You belong somewhere,” he assured her. “How about with me, at least until we figure something out?”

Emily’s eyes widened. “Really? You’d do that for me?”

“Of course,” he replied. “No one should be alone when there’s someone willing to help.”