"Forgive my intrusion."
"Don't be silly. If anyone should be here, it's you."
They were alone. None had seen her enter, none would see her leave. The visit would go unmarked, as it should.
Despite her bearing, her movements were uncertain. Any sudden gesture might shatter the fragility of this moment.
"Is she what you expected?"
"Oh yes. And so much more."
"Would you like to…?"
She stepped away. She would never dare.
Then her arms were full. She was lost.
"Hello," Pluto whispered to the newborn. She felt her first smile since the Kingdom fell. "Hello, my Small Lady."