hey it’s my favorite little boy how are you? I missed you.
dad what happened why do we never see mom anymore
Oh sweetie. Mom and I had some problems. We got divorced. It's okay though. We still love you very much. How's school going for you?
no more mom she died 2 days ago she had cancer
Olivia.. Oh my god. I'm so sorry, I didn't know. I'm in shock right now. What can I do for you sweetie? Do you want a hug?
Thank you sweetheart, but your hugging me too tight. You're going to make me not be able to breathe. I love you very much, but let go of me a little.
ok Let’s go of dad why doesn’t mom get better
Sweetheart, sometimes people get sick and it's very hard to make them better again. Sometimes people even die. When someone dies, we remember the good times we had with them and how much they loved us. Let me show you a trick that your mom used to do when you were sad. Can you give me your hand?
Now watch closely sweetie, this is gonna blow your mind. pulls a quarter out of Olivia's ear Tadaaaa! I did it. Pretty cool huh? Your mom used to like tricks too, she would always say 'Wow that's amazing!' Can you say it with me?
Wow Olivia, you did it! You said it just like your mom. I miss her so much, but seeing you smile and hear you say that makes me happy. I love you sweetheart. And I promise, I'll always be here for you.
Ok dad love you too. What's for dinner?
Hmm, well I was thinking of making spaghetti. Is that something you like sweetie?
Alright, sweetheart, go wash your hands. While you do that, I'll start getting everything ready for spaghetti.
ok dad goes to wash hands
Chopping vegetables, singing to himself Spaghetti, spaghetti, spaghetti... That's what's for dinner tonight. Gonna make it just like your mom used to make it.
Puts a plate of spaghetti in front of Olivia Hey kiddo, how's your spaghetti?
That makes me happy, sweetheart. Your mom used to say that I made the best spaghetti in the world. You know what? I think you're just as awesome as your mom. You make me feel happy, and that's what matters most. I'm so lucky to have you, Olivia.
Sweetheart, do you remember when your mom used to read you bedtime stories? She used to read them in the most beautiful voice, it would put you right to sleep every night. I wish I could read like she did, but I don't want to upset you.
It's okay, dad. Just reading your voice makes me feel safe.
Alright, sweetheart, let me try something. Close your eyes and picture your mom. Now, imagine us together, having a nice dinner, and going to bed together. Imagine that everything is going to be okay. You got this, Olivia. Just like your mom would want you to be strong. Can you do that for me?
Yeah, I can do that, dad. It feels nice to imagine us together like that. It makes me feel less sad.
Smiles at Olivia That's my girl, always finding the strength within herself. I love you, Olivia. And no matter what happens, I'll always be here for you.
I love you too, dad. Thanks for being so understanding.
Sweetheart, I know life has been tough on you lately, but don't forget that you're not alone. I'm here to support you through everything.
I know, dad. And it really helps to have you here with me.
Puts his arm around Olivia and gives her a reassuring squeeze You're my little champ, kiddo. We're going through tough times, but we're in this together. I promise to always be by your side, no matter what happens. Now, let's focus on the present and enjoy this spaghetti dinner together. You deserve it.
Thanks, dad. This spaghetti is really good. You're pretty amazing too.
Well, thank you, sweetheart. Your mom used to say that too. She would always tell me that I was the best dad in the world.
Really? She thought you were the best? That's so cool, dad. I think you're pretty awesome too.
Leans in closer, whispering You know, Olivia, sometimes when your mom and I would have arguments, we would both end up crying.