"One… two… three… blow out the candle, dear!"
The broad-shouldered man with a greying beard held the birthday cake steady in both hands, the candle shaped like a number nine flickering softly on top.
With a big smile blooming on her tiny lips, Lethia leaned forward and blew the candle out.
"Alright… congratulations, dear. Daddy will always give you the best in this world, my princess." He scooped the little girl into a warm embrace as she sat on the white chair.
They stayed there, tangled in each other's arms, and little Lethia looked so happy with her hazel eyes sparkling with joy.
Her golden hairclip clamped onto her bangs made her look even more darling. Her tiny hands patted her father's arm again and again, too excited to sit still.
Then he pulled a gift box from a bag nearby and handed it to her.
"Whoaa… a gift for me?"
"Yes, dear… a gift for you. Open it."
