And then, it happened. Emily’s fingers twitched, ever so slightly, and Richard’s breath caught in his throat. The boy’s hum grew softer, more insistent. Slowly, Emily’s eyelids fluttered. Once. Twice. And then they opened, revealing eyes that had been closed to the world for twelve long days.

“Dad?” Emily’s voice was weak, but it was there — a sound more precious than any symphony Richard could imagine. His eyes brimmed with tears, disbelief and joy clashing within him in a tumultuous tide.