Kaylee was singing softly as she gave Bethany a bubble bath, holding her up so that she could splash the water around.

“That’s pretty,” Simon said, coming up behind her and putting his arms around her. “What is it?”

She looked over her shoulder at him. “Just a song my mamma used to sing when I was little. I don’t even think there’s words, just soft sounds. Bethany likes it.”

“She surely does,” Simon agreed, watching his daughter smiling.

Kaylee hummed for a moment more, than sighed.

“What is it?” he asked, tightening his embrace a little.

“Nothing.”

“It was nothing you wouldn’t have sighed.”

“It’s just … it’s a kinda special day tomorrow, and …”

“Your birthday,” Simon supplied. “I know. I haven’t forgotten.”

She blushed. “I know you didn’t. Wasn't trying to remind you. But … work’s been tight for a few weeks, and there’s no money … I don’t want anyone spending anything on me.”

Simon kissed the back of her neck where her hair was caught up in a knot. “You think people are going to purchase lavish gifts for you?”

“That’s the whole point.” She splashed him with a little water. “I don’t want people doing that. Ain't the money to be wasting on me.”

“It’s your birthday,” Simon pointed out. “It’s not a waste.”

“Yes it is. When you’ve got other things to buy. Like food.”

Simon tried to be serious. “Well, there is that. I'm sure everyone would rather eat a meal of moulded protein than make you smile.”

“Don’t,” Kaylee said, and sniffed.

“Are you crying?” Simon asked, surprised and shocked. “Why?”

“’Cause I don’t want anyone to go hungry. Been like that before, back home, when there weren't no work. We had food, but I know my parents went to bed more’n one with no supper, just so’s we could eat. Didn’t happen too often, but enough so that I know what it’s like.”

Simon let go of her and moved around so he could see her face, gently pushing a strand of hair out of her eyes. “Kaylee, darling Kaylee …” He pushed the tear from her cheek with his thum