Love Is a Little Light
The sun was low, and the house was quiet. Mia held her blanket and looked around her room. She wondered, Where is love right now? She listened. She could hear the tiniest hum of the nightlight.
On the shelf sat a teddy with one worn ear. The ear felt smooth from many hugs. Love was there, in the squish and the squeeze. The blanket’s corner smelled like clean soap and a little bit of sunshine.
From the kitchen came a warm clink and a sweet smell. A cup of cocoa waited, not too hot. A tiny cloud of steam rose and curled. Love was there, in a careful stir and a slow sip.
By the window, the cat hopped up and tucked into a lap. Purr, purr, a soft murmur, like a whisper you can feel. That word, murmur, means a quiet, gentle sound. Love was there, in the weight and the warmth.
She took two crayons and drew a small red heart. Then a blue one, right beside it. She slid the paper under the door with care. Love was there, in a little surprise waiting to be found.
Footsteps came down the hall. A soft knock. A gentle face in the doorway. Arms made a room that moved. Love was there, in a hug that fit just right. The nightlight gave a tiny glimmer, like a star you can touch.
The blanket tucked in. The book closed with a hush. A kiss on the hair. A whisper, Sleep well, my dear. Love was here all along, in big ways and small. Eyes drifted down. The room grew still. The little light glowed on.
Good night, little one. The love in your room is quiet and near.