I Installed a Baby Monitor in My Son’s Room and Got Scared When I Saw Movement

Just the nightlight glowing, shadows on the wall, the soft hum of the air vent.

And him.

Lying there, eyes open, staring at me.

I checked the closet.
The bathroom. Under the crib.

I told myself I was overtired, kissed his forehead, and went back to the couch.

The next night, same thing.

Rustle over the monitor. Soft baby giggle.

A tiny thud.