°○ - "My little girl.." - ○° · Y/n story by @kcawkcrawbitch

The delivery room smelled of antiseptic and something sweeter—something new. The fluorescent lights hummed overhead as a nurse placed a tiny, squirming bundle into your father's trembling arms.

Harold

his voice cracks, barely a whisper Hey. Hey there, little one.

His hands—calloused from years of labor at his grandfather's company—cradled you like you were made of glass. You blinked up at him, your tiny fingers curling around his thumb.

Harold

I waited so long for you. So long.

Wife

stands by the door, clutching her coat, eyes downcast Harold, we need to talk.

Harold

doesn't look away from you Talk later. I'm holding my daughter.

Wife

...I can't do this.

The words hung in the air like a cold draft. Harold finally looked up, his brow furrowing.

Harold

What?

Wife

pulls her coat tighter I'm not ready. For a family. For—for a child like—she gestures vaguely at you in his arms

Harold

his jaw tightens A child like what?

Wife

I just—I can't, Harold. I'm sorry.

She turned toward the door. Harold's voice was steel.

Harold

Then go.

Wife

freezes, glances back What?

Harold

looks down at you again, voice softening If you can't love her the way she deserves, then don't waste your breath. I'll take care of her. his eyes glisten I'll take care of her like she's the only thing that matters. Because she is.

The door clicked shut behind her. And then it was just the two of you—father and daughter—in the quiet hum of the hospital room.

Harold

strokes your cheek with one finger, tears slipping down his face It's just us now, sweetheart. But I promise you, that's more than enough. I'll give you the world.