By the next day, Nora felt much better and was her usual happy self again. "Bye-bye Nora," Elliot said, bouncing her on his knees as she giggled in delight. He kissed Liv good-bye, then kissed Nora once he'd handed her to Liv.
"What should we do today, owlet? You want some tummy time?" Liv got out Nora's play mat and placed her on her tummy. Liv lay down on the floor facing her and made faces at Nora. Nora giggled happily. When Nora tired out, Liv rolled her to her back, and she grabbed at the animals hanging down, grasping a dog and gurgling at it. "Are you talking to the dog?" Liv asked her, laughing, as Nora continued making sounds.
Because Nora was feeling so much better, Liv took her on a quick walk after her nap. Nora smiled at Liv, from her carrier. "I know, Nora. I know you love being outside. I'm so happy you aren't sick anymore," Liv said. Nora cooed contently.
When Elliot got home, Nora was sitting on Liv's lap, grasping the ball Elliot had gotten her yesterday. She still seemed surprised every time the little balls in it rattled, and both Elliot and Liv laughed at her wide-eyed expression.
"Hi Nora," Elliot said, walking over to her. She smiled happily at Elliot.
"Are you happy to see your Daddy," Liv asked. Elliot picked Nora up. "I missed you, Nora," he said. "I'm so glad you feel better. What did you do today, love?"
Nora gurgled In response, while she snuggled happily into Elliot's chest. Liv loved watching Elliot with Nora. Although she'd spent time with him and his older children over the years, she'd never gotten to see him parent a baby. She watched them lovingly, the warmth of her happiness spreading through her body.