Gradually, Takoda's eyes closed, and her breathing grew steady. Cooper was already fast asleep, his face peaceful against the pillow.
Dakota continued the lullaby for a little longer, her voice growing softer as she watched over them. The exhaustion she had been pushing aside finally caught up with her. Her eyelids grew heavy, and her movements slowed until her hand rested still against Takoda's back.
She intended to remain awake until she was certain both children were sleeping comfortably, but the warmth of their bodies beside her and the quiet that had settled over the room made it difficult to resist the pull of sleep.
Her head sank gently against the pillows, and before long, Dakota had fallen asleep beside them, one arm loosely wrapped around Takoda while Cooper remained nestled close to her other side.
