Girl (4) Receives Small Baby Doll From Stranger. When Parents See What It Is, They Turn Pale

Normal Affection or Not?

As the night went on, I convinced myself that her attachment was probably normal. Children often latch onto new things quickly, after all.

Later, when we finally tucked her into bed, she fell asleep easily, clutching the little doll in her tiny arms.

I watched her for a few moments, reassured by the peaceful rise and fall of her chest. Maybe there was nothing to worry about, I thought, heading quietly back to the living room.