The words slipped out simple, honest, and real.
Takoda blinked, then her entire face lit up. "You can always accompany me, Royal Mother." She scooted even closer. "I also want to accompany you forever."
Before Dakota could respond, Takoda leaned up and pressed a quick, affectionate kiss to her cheek. Dakota's chest tightened warmly. She kissed the girl's cheek right back.
Takoda giggled.
Dakota laughed.
Soon both of them were smiling for no reason at all.
Her fingers slid gently through Takoda's hair. "I want you to have the best childhood," she said quietly, with complete conviction. "The happiest. I want you to have everything."
Everything she herself had never received. Everything she had once wished for. Everything she had spent years pretending she didn't need.
Takoda smiled — that bright, uncomplicated smile only children seemed capable of. "I know, Mother."
The title slipped out naturally, almost accidentally. Neither of them commented on it.
