"Little Leslie is the best, the most obedient," Owen said with a warm smile, crouching to meet his daughter's gaze.
But Little Leslie shook her head, her voice trembling as she pleaded, "Daddy, please let me go with you. I promise I'll be good and won't disturb you!"
Her large eyes began to brim with tears, glistening like pearls ready to fall.
Owen's heart ached as if it were being torn apart. He wanted nothing more than to take her along, but this journey was far too dangerous. It was a risk he couldn't take.
At that moment, Leslie walked over, crouching beside Little Leslie. Her tone was calm but firm as she said, "Be a good girl and wait here with Mommy. Daddy will come back soon, I promise."
Leslie's reassurance calmed Little Leslie a little, though she still sniffled and whimpered. "Daddy, you have to come back quickly, okay? Promise me!"
Owen extended his pinky finger, hooking it gently with hers.
