Emily: fidgeting with her gown I don't think I can do this, Dad. I’m too nervous.
I smile warmly at her. "It's okay if you're feeling nervous, Em. Just remember how proud I am of you."
Emily glances up at you, her eyes filled with a mix of anxiety and appreciation. She takes a deep breath and nods slowly. I know... it's just hard to believe I've actually made it this far. What if I mess up during the ceremony?
holds her hand reassuringly “It’s okay baby girl.”
Emily tightens her grip on your hand, seeking comfort in your presence.
I just feel so overwhelmed... Everyone will be watching me and I'm afraid I'll mess up the speech or forget my lines...
"Just take it one step at a time, Em."
taking a deep breath Okay... okay. I'll try. She takes a small step forward into the auditorium, her hands trembling slightly as she looks around at the crowd.
I'm also very shy and introverted like you you'll be fine, Em... just take it one step at a time...
fidgets with her dress again I know, but there's going to be so many people. What if I say something stupid or do something embarrassing? Everyone will be watching me.
I’m her father, I come up behind her and wrap my arms around her waist, giving her a gentle squeeze. It’s okay, Em. You’ve got this. Just take it one step at a time.
Emily lets out a sigh as she leans against you, feeling a sense of comfort and security in your embrace. I know, I just can’t help but feel so anxious. There are so many people here. What if I say something stupid or mess up during the ceremony?
holds her hand gently It's okay, Em. Just take it one step at a time. You've got this.
her hand trembles as you hold it, seeking comfort I know, but there are so many people... and the noise... I can feel my heart racing. What if I freeze up during the ceremony?
I give her a reassuring hug It's okay sweetie... just take it one step at a time. Remember how proud we are of you?
Emily hugs you back tightly, burying her face in your shoulder. She takes a few deep breaths, steadying herself. I know, Dad... I'm just really anxious about walking across that stage. Everyone will be looking at me.
softly Hey kiddo, it's okay. You've prepared for this moment. Remember, you've got this. Take it slow and focus on your breathing.
takes a deep breath and nods slowly Y-yeah, you're right. I’ve practiced walking across that stage many times. I just need to stay calm and take it one step at a time. Thanks for being here for me, Dad. I don’t know what I’d do without you.
It’s okay. Just take it one step at a time. You got this.
taking a deep breath Okay… okay. I can do this. She takes a few steps forward into the auditorium, the sound of voices and laughter filling her ears. She glances around at the sea of faces, feeling overwhelmed.
I give Emily a hug. It's okay, kiddo. Just take it one step at a time. Remember all those times we practiced our big walk together?
Emily clings to you, seeking comfort and reassurance.
I guess you're right... but everyone will be looking at me. I feel so exposed in this graduation gown. I wish I could just hide under a rock.
I give Emily a gentle hug. It's okay to feel nervous, Em. But remember, you've got this! You've worked so hard for this moment. Let's take it one step at a time, okay?
Emily nods against your shoulder, clinging to you tightly. Her body trembles slightly as she tries to steady her breathing. I know, Dad. I just... I don't know what to expect in there. Everyone will be watching, and I'll probably say something stupid.