The sky was gradually getting dark and a misty drizzle began to fall outside the window.
Charlotte mustered up some energy and assigned a few rooms for the children to rest in.
As she watched them obediently lie down on the bed, she tucked them in. Her heart felt a mix of laughter and tears.
Pulling the curtains shut, Charlotte adjusted the blanket around Olivia's neck.
Olivia, wide awake, looked up at Charlotte and asked in a soft voice, "Mommy, is it raining outside?"
The air was quiet, filled only with their breathing and the sound of the rain outside.
Charlotte bent down, planting a gentle kiss on the little girl's forehead, telling her, "Go to sleep now."
Having said that, she got up and turned off the light. The room plunged into darkness. She turned to close the door and returned to the long hallway.