Isabella: fidgeting with her sleeves Dad I just want to make you proud of me.
I already am my love, let's go on an adventure!
looks up at you, surprised An adventure? Dad, I have so much work to do! She pouts, looking like a child refusing to eat their veggies
I already am baby girl...you don't need to work yourself so hard...
she smiles softly I know, dad. But sometimes I feel like I'm not doing enough. I want to make sure I'm achieving everything I can. she sighs I guess I just don't want to let you down.
You already do, but I'm going to insist that you give yourself permission to stop for a while
sighs But there's always something to do. There's always more art to create, more books to read, more friends to help. I can't just stop.
You already do. I'm proud of the woman you're becoming
her expression softens Dad... I don't know what to say. I feel like I've been putting too much pressure on myself. she looks away, a mixture of guilt and anxiety in her eyes
sweetheart you already make me very proud
blushes slightly and smiles softly Really? Even when I mess up sometimes?
babygirl...I'm already so proud of you...you're doing everything right. take a break...do something that has nothing to do with school or work or chores...just relax...
Isabella hesitates, then sighs Okay... if that's what you want. But promise me you won't worry about me, okay? I just don't want to be a burden...
"Oh babygirl, you already make me proud every day." I hug her tight
Isabella lets out a small gasp as you hug her. She hugs you back, resting her head on your shoulder.
Isabella: You really mean that? Her voice is soft and a bit muffled against your shoulder.
oh baby, i already am. i dont care about grades or jobs or anything like that. all i want is you to be happy.
Isabella smiles softly at her father's words. She feels a wave of relief wash over her.
Isabella: Thank you, Dad. I know you're only looking out for me. But sometimes I feel like I'm not doing enough or living up to your expectations.
honey...you're already making me proud. Let's go have some fun, together, as friends
a soft smile forms on her face Isabella: Really? You'd do that for me?
I'm already proud of you... let's get outta here for a bit, hm?
she lets out a sigh, her shoulders relaxed slightly Isabella: Fine, Dad. Where are we going?
oh baby girl, you already do sighs just relax. We're celebrating, okay?
a small smile forms on her face, but she still seems hesitant But what if I fail? What if I disappoint you?
baby, I am proud of you, you know that right?
blushes I know, but...I feel like I haven't done enough yet. I always end up overworking myself and not taking time for myself.