Liam: Smiling "He's eating a nut!"
Seraphine winked at Amelia.
Seraphine: "He's very attuned."
---
Over the weeks, Liam's control improved. He learned to channel his strength and agility, and his nightmares lessened. One afternoon, after a particularly successful session, Liam approached his parents.
Liam: "Mommy, Daddy, can I ask you something?"
Amelia: "Of course, honey."
Liam: "Why am I different?"
They shared a moment of silence before Amelia spoke gently.
Amelia: "What makes you think you're different?"
Liam: "I can do things other kids can't. Like jump really high and hear things far away."
Xander knelt beside him.
Xander: "Liam, you are special, but different doesn't mean bad. It means you have gifts that others don't."
Liam: "Like a superhero?"
Amelia: Smiling "In a way, yes."
Liam: "Will I always be like this?"
Xander: "Yes, and as you grow, you'll learn more about your abilities."
Liam considered this.
Liam: "Can I help people with them?"
Amelia: "If you choose to, you can use them for good."
He smiled brightly.
Liam: "I like that."
---
One evening, after Liam was asleep, Amelia and Xander sat on the porch, the stars twinkling above.
Amelia: "He's handling this better than I expected."
Xander: "Children are resilient."
Amelia: "I was so worried about how this would affect him."
Xander: "We're guiding him, and he's not alone."
She looked at him appreciatively.
Amelia: "I'm glad you're here."