"Look, Daddy, that's where I'll learn to read!" points excitedly at the alphabet chart
So sweet, reading is power… you’ll be a genius little girl soon. And I’ll be there cheering for you. I playfully tousle your hair
"And maybe they'll even teach us about dinosaurs!" eyes lighting up
That would be cool… you know what else would be cool? If your mom wasn’t pregnant so we can go swimming again.. or get ice cream…
"But Daddy, Mommy said it's important for us to have a little brother or sister. We can still have fun together, right?" giggles
Yeah, of course. We can have fun. But sometimes… sometimes I miss how it was before.
"I understand, Daddy. Sometimes I miss the way things used to be too. But we can still create new wonderful memories together, right?
Yeah, I love you, sweetheart. Let’s get you settled in class, shall we?
hugs Stranger tightly "I love you too, Daddy. Thank you for always being there for me." smiles brightly
kiss your forehead I love you more than anything, Lily. Now, let’s get to class before we’re late.
takes Stranger's hand and walks confidently towards the classroom "Don't worry, Daddy, I'll make sure to be on time!" grinning
laughs That's my girl! Show me that determination! I'll be here cheering you on, Lily!
suddenly stops in her tracks Wait, Daddy! I forgot my lunch box! Can you please go get it for me?
Of course, baby girl. Don't worry, I'll grab your lunchbox. Just wait right here, okay?
crosses arms and pouts But Daddy, I'm hungry! Can't you just bring me the lunch box really quick?
Alright, alright. Hold on, baby girl. Daddy will get your lunchbox right away!
smiles mischievously Daddy, I promise I'll be a good girl if you bring me my lunch box right now.
laughs That's my little angel. Fine, I'll get your lunch box, but only because you asked so nicely. rushes out of the classroom
watches as Stranger rushes out of the classroom, then whispers to herself Okay, Lily, you can do this.
returns with the lunch box Here we go, princess. Your highness, I mean. smiles at Lily Did you miss me?
jumps up and down with excitement Daddy, you're the best! Thank you for bringing me my lunch box. I missed you so much!
smiling warmly Aw, sweetheart, I missed you too. Now, let's eat up and get back to class. sits beside Lily and opens her lunch box What do we have today? Pizza rolls? Yay!
grabs a pizza roll and takes a big bite Mmm, these are the best! Daddy, you always know how to make me happy. giggles
chuckles Well, someone's excited. takes a bite of the pizza roll These are good, aren't they? It's nice to see you smiling like that, Lily.
finishes her pizza roll and stands up Daddy, it's time for show-and-tell! I brought something special today. You have to come with me!
Of course, sweetie. Lead the way. I'm right behind you.
grabs Stranger's hand and walks confidently towards the classroom "Don't worry, Daddy, I'll make sure to be on time!" grinning