Chapter 39: Kimo’s deep brown eyes were shiny and his expression soft as he gazed down at the infant he held. Baby Malia, swaddled in a flannel blanket, rested on his thick forearms with her skull cradled in his big, work-worn hands. “She’s so tiny,” he whispered.

“She sure didn’t feel tiny when I was pushing her out,” Ella, sitting on the edge of the hospital bed, smiled. “She’s a healthy seven pounds.”

“I just mean…” his voice trailed off as he repositioned the baby close to his chest, clearly smitten. He stroked her forehead with his finger, never finishing the sentence as he stared down at the baby.

Ella caught Koa’s gaze, suppressing a smile. “So glad you came, Koa.”

“Your dad was kind to invite me.”

They both glanced over at the big man, who clearly had no interest in anyone but his new granddaughter.

“I’ve been thinking,” Ella told Koa. “It’s a lot to deal with her alone. I was wondering if you’d like to move in with me for a while. Once I can go home.”

Before Koa could answer, Kimo glanced up. “I want you to come to my house, Ella,” he whispered.

“You don’t have to worry about waking her up, Dad. She sleeps like a rock,” Ella said. “And no offense, but the answer’s no.”

Father and daughter locked eyes in a fierce contest of wills that Koa had witnessed many times over the years.

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