Things seemed more at ease. The van Loons had even been able to make their annual trip to London. The streets were filled with morbid festivities, people of every identity running around scantily dressed or fully nude for the sake of Day of the Dead. It was the perfect breeding ground for illness. “I’m not taking her out there,” said Amanda. Her tone was adamant, but she smiled down at her baby girl lying on the bed. Coos of happiness bubbled past Elia's lips. Her green eyes were alive with excitement. Niels leaned over the bed, his finger seeking Elia's strong grip. A smile touched his lips as well. “Perhaps we can go to the park just for—”
“Nmh-mm,” Amanda responded, shaking her head. “Tomorrow, perhaps.” Niels sighed and sat beside her. His hand softly ran over her hair. “You worry too much,” he said. “She’s okay. She will be okay. A little bit of fresh air and sunlight never does any harm. Most will be at the cemetery anyway, so the park ought to be safe. You need to get out.” Amanda knew it was true. They’d managed to leave their baby girl behind for a few hours on Amanda’s birthday a few days ago—some alone time—while Belie babysat. However, Amanda had returned to her usual routine immediately. The lack of proper sleep, the constant surveillance over their baby girl. She found herself repetitively placing her hand against Elia’s chest to feel the rise and fall or placing a finger above Elia’s nose for proof of her breathing. It was nerve-wrecking looking after a fragile neonate, but Niels was right. Elia was fine and they all needed to get out. They were in London after all. The whole family was there. “Okay,” said Amanda. “I'll get the kids ready. Ask our parents if they want to bring Aubrey along... We’re taking Elia to the park.”
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Amanda at a GlanceNames: Amanda Pontremoli, Amanda van Loon Archives
August 2017
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