Chubby hands clasped around Gem Atkinson's neck as she asked, "Daddy, are you feeling better today?"
"Much better. What do you think of Daddy today?"
"Daddy will always be the best in my eyes."
Gem Atkinson chuckled heartily.
"Daddy, when do you think you'll be able to knock down a row of people with just one move like you used to?"
"Hmm, probably about two months."
Audrey counted with her little fingers, "60 days, okay, I will start the countdown from today, Daddy. You can't lie to me."
"Mm."
"Daddy, I want to tell you something."
"What is it?"
"Daddy, even if you just lie there, even if it's for a lifetime. In my eyes, you will always be a hero."
Gem Atkinson felt a softness in his heart and reached out to gently pat the little creature's back.
