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“Chocolate chip?”

“That’s it!”

“Have you ever had chocolate on its own?”

“Not that I know of.”

“It tastes like frozen corul.”

“Really?”

“Absolutely!” Nell’s face lit up. “There’s a reason humans call that drink hot chocolate.”

“Sounds delicious. I’ll have to try it,” he said, glancing at his watch. “My break’s over. I have rounds. If you want to stay here and wait, you’re more than welcome.”

Nell tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear. “Thanks for the offer, but I’m going to head to the family area. Our first family patient is scheduled to arrive for therapy today. He’s bringing his mate and child.”

“Celvhon’s appointment is today?”

“Yes. Charlie asked if I could explain how to work some of the more human apparatus to them.”

“Fantastic. I’ll meet you there when I’m done?”

“And we can get ice cream after?”

“Sounds like a plan.” Maklr bent to kiss the top of Nell’s head. They walked to the elevator, took it to the first floor, and went in opposite directions.

“Good evening,” Nell greeted the family. She walked over to shake their hands.

“Was this family center your idea?” the Klagan woman asked. “My name is Hannie. This is my mate Celvhon, and our daughter, Stella.”

“Stella?” “Yes, it’s a human name. She’s named after the human female who helped save my mate’s life,” Hannie explained.

“It’s a beautiful name and a touching tribute.” Nell smiled. “I’m sure the adult Stella felt honored. Aren’t you beautiful, little Stella?” Nell said to the child who couldn’t be over two revolutions old.

“Stella is a bit too young for some things here, but I bet you’d like the swings, right, sweet girl?” Nell guided the family to the swing set. “Do you mind if I demonstrate how to use it?” she asked, seeing the confusion on the Klagan couple’s faces.

“Please,” Hannie said.

“First, we’ll place Stella in the bucket seat and fasten the straps over her shoulders. I’ll show you how to do everything. Don’t panic. Then, we’ll push her together, then I’ll show your wife and the two of you will push Stella, and then you’ll be able to do it on your own.”

A look of determination settled on Celvhon’s face. “What if I hurt her?”

“You won’t.”

“I admire your confidence,” he said.

Nell laughed wryly. “It’s taken me a long time to become this confident. I still have a lot of work to do myself,” she said. “Here, place your hands in this position and give Stella a gentle push like so.” She demonstrated. The little girl raised her arms in the air, giggling and babbling contentedly.

“I think she likes it,” Hannie said.

“Probably. Most human children do. I’ve never met any Klagan children. Stella is my first. I assumed all children would like the concept of a swing.”

“Where do I put my hands again?” Celvhon asked.

“Here.” Nell pointed.

“I can show him,” the little girl’s mother said. “I have an idea. Do you feel comfortable on your own for a few minutes?” Nell asked.