It was an ordinary morning, and little Diem was filled with excitement, ready for another school day. She had neatly packed her bag the night before, laid out her uniform, and even woke up early to prepare. Today was special—her father had promised to take her to school, and she had been looking forward to their walk together all night.
However, as the clock ticked, Diem’s excitement slowly turned into worry. She kept glancing at the door, waiting for her father to come and call her. But he was nowhere to be seen. Her small hands tightened around the straps of her backpack as she sat on the edge of her chair, her feet swinging nervously.
“Dad?” she called out softly. No response.
Minutes passed, and her heart started to sink. The school bell would ring soon, and she couldn’t be late. Tears welled up in her big, round eyes as disappointment washed over her. Her father had never been late before. Did he forget about her?
Finally, the sound of hurried footsteps filled the house. Her father appeared, slightly out of breath, holding his car keys. “I’m so sorry, Diem! I lost track of time!” he said, rushing to her side.
But it was too late—Diem’s tears had already started to fall. “You forgot about me…” she whispered, her voice shaky. She had been looking forward to this moment so much, and now, it felt like it had been taken away.
Her father knelt down, gently wiping her tears away. “I would never forget you, sweetheart. I just got caught up with something. Can you forgive me?” His voice was filled with guilt and love.
Diem sniffled but nodded slowly. Her father lifted her into his arms, hugging her tightly before carrying her to the car. “Let’s get you to school, my little princess,” he said with a smile.
By the time they arrived, Diem was feeling better. She waved goodbye with a small smile, knowing that even though he had been late, her father still loved her more than anything in the world.
