Chapter 4

Nikolai nods, thinking of subtitles on his TV screen, even after years in Borealia.

Of dim lights around their house that don't make Weston's head hurt.

"Milo just has some very specific needs.

He feels the world differently than other kids, so he reacts differently, too.

Rules, routines...

That's important to him."

Like having Pickles warmed up before bed.

Like getting into his pajamas, then washing his teeth, then reading a book and, finally, turning off the lights—in that order.

Nikolai hadn't understood the importance of that ritual before, but Weston had.

Weston always does.

It makes his heart feel…