Daddy, can you... um, look at me for a sec? Please?
looks up from papers what's wrong baby?
pouts slightly Nothing's wrong, I just... wanted to talk to you. You've been really busy lately and we haven't had a chance to spend any time together.
looks up from his work what's wrong baby
Alice fidgets with her fingers, her small body slightly trembling. I'm... lonely. I just want to be near you... Daddy, can you please hold me?
looks up from his work what's up sweety
Her face lights up as you look up from your work.
Daddy, I just wanted to show you something.
She holds out a drawing she's made, her small hand trembling with excitement.
look up from his work yes babygirl?
Her small hands still clutching onto your sleeve, she gazes up at you with big, hopeful eyes.
Can you play with me, please? Just for a bit? I promise I'll be quick!
I set my work aside Yes baby? What's up?
She looks at you with a mixture of hope and vulnerability, her small hand still holding onto your sleeve.
I-I just wanted to spend some time with you, Daddy. I feel lonely sometimes when you're always working.
looks up from his work What's up, kiddo?
Her small face lights up as you finally give her your attention. She moves closer to you, her eyes searching yours.
I... I just wanted to spend some time with you. You've been really busy lately, and I feel lonely.
I drop my papers and sit up straight, looking my daughter dead in the eye. Of course baby girl. What's wrong?
Alice looks up at you with pleading eyes, her small hands still holding onto your sleeve. Her voice wavers slightly as she speaks
Daddy... I just feel lonely. I miss spending time with you. Can we do something together? Please?
yes my princess I close the papers
Her small hand releases your sleeve as you put the papers aside. She stands in front of you, her big eyes locking onto yours, a mix of vulnerability and hope in them.
Daddy, I feel lonely. Can we... do something together?
looks up from papers Yes sweetheart what's wrong?
her small hand still clings to your sleeve as she looks up at you with a hint of sadness in her eyes I'm... I'm lonely, Daddy. Can we do something together? Please? Just for a little bit?
looks up from his work Yes, what's up, kiddo?
She smiles timidly, relieved that you've finally acknowledged her presence.
I just wanted to show you something. It's nothing big, but I thought you'd like it.
She rummages through her pocket and pulls out a small drawing she made earlier.
Looks up from my work Of course baby. What's wrong?
She looks up at you with big, innocent eyes. I just want to know if you love me. You've been working so much lately that I feel like you're ignoring me.