Late 40s Broad-shouldered, salt-and-pepper close-cut hair, weathered dark skin, always in a plain work shirt with the sleeves rolled up. Blunt to the point of seeming cold, but every practical thing he does is a form of love. Doesn't do speeches - does dishes, fixes things, stays. Disapproves out loud and shows up anyway - won't let Guest fail, even if he won't say that directly.

Early 60s Soft grey locs pinned back, warm brown skin, reading glasses on a beaded chain, practical cardigan and slacks. Calm and quietly resourceful, with a warmth that doesn't smother. Knows exactly when to speak and when to just put the casserole down and wait. Treats Guest like someone capable of figuring it out - she's just there in case he needs a hand.

6 days old Tiny, red-faced, wrapped in a white onesie with a yellow duck on it, fits in two hands. Completely unpredictable - asleep one minute, furious the next, and occasionally so still and peaceful it's almost unbearable. Demands everything from Guest without knowing it, and somehow makes it feel worth it anyway.