The high pitched wail cuts easily through Nick’s slumber and he’s on his feet and in the nursery, holding his hungry, wailing, but oh so beautiful daughter before he even properly realises he’s awake. He cuddles the baby, because he can’t not, and by the time he’s calmed her down, Ellie is already sitting in the rocking chair in the corner, arms out, nightshirt open at the chest, a tired smile on her face as she says, “You should go back to sleep.” Nick places their daughter in her arms, waits for her to latch on before running a hand over Ellie’s hair as he repeats the promise he makes every night - “If you’re awake, I’m awake,” - and Ellie leans into his touch and closes her eyes, the most beautiful sight he’s ever seen.