Deep in the silent night, Tae slipped from her room. The mansion slept. She eased open the nursery door, moonlight bathing the crib. Ggukie lay on his back, tiny fists curled near his cheeks, breathing softly. Tae’s breath hitched.

She lifted him gently, cradling his warm weight against her heart. Tears spilled again, quiet and hot, as she rocked him. "Mama," she whispered against his soft hair, the word a secret, sacred joy. "My precious baby." She held him, soaking in his sleepy warmth, her silent tears falling onto his blanket.