What if Tim had a daughter?

Part 4

(In this story, Lucy lives alone, and Tamara isn't part of the narrative. While Lucy and Tim are close friends, they maintain a strictly professional relationship at work (they secretly both have feelings for each other) . Olivia's mom, Isabel, left them shortly after giving birth to Olivia, leaving Tim to raise her on his own.)

As they made their way to Lucy's place, Olivia felt a sense of excitement about spending more time together. She cherished these moments with Lucy, knowing they always brought joy and laughter.
Upon arriving at Lucy's place, they settled in comfortably, enjoying each other's company. They talked, laughed, and shared stories, creating memories that would last.
Lucy, noticing the time and asked
Lucy- Are you hungry?
Olivia's stomach grumbled in response, and she nodded.
Olivia- Yeah
Lucy smiled warmly
Lucy- Okay, let's make some dinner. What would you like to eat?
Olivia thought for a moment, considering her options.
Olivia- How about pasta? Do you have any spaghetti?
Lucy nodded.
Lucy- Yes, I do! Spaghetti it is then. Let's get cooking!
They headed to the kitchen, Olivia feeling eager to help Lucy prepare dinner. Together, they gathered the ingredients needed for spaghetti sauce: tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs. Olivia washed the vegetables while Lucy boiled water for the pasta.
Once the sauce was simmering and the pasta cooked al dente, they plated the spaghetti and topped it with the homemade sauce. The aroma of the freshly cooked meal filled the kitchen, making Olivia's mouth water in anticipation.
Just as Olivia and Lucy finished plating the spaghetti, Lucy's phone rang. It was Tim, calling to let Lucy know he had arrived to pick up Olivia.
Lucy answered the call with a smile, then turned to Olivia.
Lucy- It's your dad, Liv. He's here to pick you up.
Olivia's face fell slightly, disappointed that their time together was coming to an end. However, Lucy quickly had an idea.
Lucy- Hey Tim, we just finished cooking dinner. Would you like to come in and join us? We made spaghetti.
Tim hesitated for a moment before agreeing.
Tim- Sure, that sounds great. I'll come in.
Olivia's face lit up with excitement at the prospect of having dinner with her dad and Lucy.
Olivia- Yay! Thank you, Lucy.
When Tim entered the apartment, he was greeted by the inviting aroma of the freshly cooked spaghetti. He smiled warmly at Olivia and Lucy.
Tim- Thank you for inviting me in, Lucy. Dinner smells delicious.
Lucy returned the smile.
Lucy- Of course, Tim. We're glad you decided to join us. Please, have a seat.
As Tim approached Olivia, she smiled brightly, feeling a rush of warmth as he wrapped her in a quick hug. It was a simple gesture, but it meant the world to her. She returned the hug before they all settled around the table.
Tim- how was your girls-day?
He asks before they start eating.
Olivia- It was amazing, Dad! We explored the mall together. We tried on clothes, had ice cream, and even cooked dinner together. It was so much fun!
Lucy smiled warmly, appreciating Tim's interest in Olivia's day. Tim turns to Lucy with a "is she telling the truth" expression to make sure his daughter behaved.
Lucy- Olivia was fantastic company, Tim. She was polite, helpful, and really enthusiastic about everything we did. We had a wonderful time together.
Lucy's reassurance put Tim at ease, and he smiled, grateful for Olivia's positive experience and Lucy's guidance.
Tim- Thank you, Lucy.
Lucy smiled warmly at Tim's gratitude, appreciating his acknowledgment.
Lucy- You're welcome. Anytime Olivia wants to spend time together, I'm here for her.
Tim nodded, feeling reassured by Lucy's words.
Tim- That means a lot to me. Thank you for taking care of her.
Lucy- It's my pleasure, Tim. She's a wonderful kid.
With that, they all settled in to enjoy their dinner together, grateful for the bond they shared. As they enjoyed their meal together, laughter filled the room, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere.
As they finished their meal, Tim and Lucy worked together to clean the kitchen, chatting amiably as they washed dishes and tidied up. Olivia, content with her full belly, settled onto the couch to watch a movie, enjoying the familiar comfort of their shared space.
Lucy- I have to tell you something, Tim.
As they finished cleaning up, Tim wiped his hands on a dish towel, turning to Lucy with a slightly furrowed brow, sensing her seriousness.
Tim- Sure, Lucy. What is it?
Lucy took a moment, collecting her thoughts before speaking.
Lucy- While we where at the mall, Olivia...
Tim- did I she do something?
Lucy paused, noticing Tim's concern and wanting to reassure him before continuing.
Lucy- No, no, nothing like that. Olivia was great, really. It's just that... Okay it's harder than I thought it would be. And you being my TO doesn't make things easier
Tim- Take your time.
Lucy- Thank you, Tim. It's just that... well, while we were at the mall, Olivia mentioned wanting to buy a bra. So I took her to the store and helped her pick out some items.
Tim's expression softened as he realized the nature of Lucy's concern.
Tim- Ah, I see. That's a big step for her.
Lucy nodded, grateful for Tim's understanding.
Tim- But isn't it a little early? I mean she's...
Lucy understood Tim's concern and nodded sympathetically.
Lucy- I understand your concern, Tim. It did catch me off guard at first too. But nowadays, it's not uncommon for girls to show an interest in wearing bras even before they...you know,.. physically need them. She said her friends are wearing them and she feels ready to do that too. And maybe she might just want to feel more grown-up. But it's important for you to support her too in this journey.
Tim considered Lucy's words, recognizing the need to support Olivia as she navigated through these changes.
Tim- Yeah I get that but all her friends at school are older than her. She skipped two grades.
Lucy- Don't worry, I made sure it's appropriate for her age.  She wanted something for sport and something comfortable and simple. She didn't even get real bras. Well she's got some sports bras and some training bras or however they're called.
Tim nodded, feeling reassured by Lucy's understanding and support. He knew it was essential to be there for Olivia during this stage of her life.
With a sense of understanding settling between them, Tim and Lucy continued their conversation.
Tim- I suppose you're right. Thanks for being there for her.
Lucy nodded, a soft smile playing on her lips.
Lucy- Of course, Tim. She's a remarkable girl, and she deserves all the support and understanding everyone can offer.
Their exchange was interrupted by Olivia's voice from the living room.
Olivia- Hey, Dad, Lucy! Are you guys coming to watch the movie?
Tim and Lucy exchanged a glance, sharing a silent moment of the bond they were nurturing with Olivia.
Tim- We'll be right there, Livi
With a nod of agreement, Tim and Lucy made their way to the living room where Olivia was waiting for them. As they settled in on the couch together, Tim couldn't help but feel grateful for Lucy's presence and the support she offered both him and his daughter.
As the movie came to an end, Tim and Olivia exchanged sleepy smiles. Tim glanced at Lucy, gratitude evident in his eyes.
Tim- Thanks for tonight, Lucy. It meant a lot to both of us.
Lucy returned the smile warmly.
Lucy- Anytime, Tim. Take care, Olivia.
Olivia hugged Lucy tightly, her voice filled with affection.
Olivia- Thanks for everything, Lucy. See you soon!
With that, Tim and Olivia headed home. As they drove home, Tim's mind raced with thoughts on how to broach the topic with Olivia. Finally, he took a deep breath and turned to her.
Tim cleared his throat, breaking the silence in the car.
Tim- Hey, Livi, I wanted to talk to you about something from earlier today.
Olivia turned to him, her expression curious.
Olivia- Sure, Dad. What's on your mind?
Tim hesitated for a moment, unsure of how to approach the topic delicately.
Tim- Well, Lucy mentioned that you were looking at bras.
Olivia's cheeks flushed slightly, but she nodded, not meeting her father's gaze.
Olivia- Yeah, I mentioned it to Lucy.
Tim- Liv, I just wanted to ask... Did you not feel comfortable enough to talk to me about that?
Olivia shifted in her seat, her fingers fidgeting nervously in her lap.
Olivia- It's not that, Dad. It's just... Lucy was there, and she's a woman, so I thought she might understand better.
Tim- It's alright, Livi. I understand. But remember, I've been with your mom for many years, and I know a few things. Not everything, but some things I do know. And I'm always here to help and support you, no matter what.
Olivia- she's not my mom
Olivia's correction catches Tim off guard, and he pauses for a moment, processing her words.
Tim- why do you think that?
Olivia- I don't know
Tim- you don't just say that. Why do you think your mo-..Isabel isn't your mom?
Olivia- I guess... because she left us when I was little. Moms don't do that, right?
Tim's heart ached as he listened to Olivia's words, grappling with the weight of her pain.
Tim- Liv, I understand why you might feel that way. It's true that moms are usually there for their children, but sometimes things happen that we can't control. Isabel, she made a choice to leave, but that doesn't mean she stopped loving you. It's just... life can be messy, and people make mistakes.
He explains as they arrive at home
Olivia- No dad, she hurt me. Not just me, she hurt you too. Every time when I had a bad dream, felt, was sick or whatever you were there. You held me and I used to wish I had a mom like every other kid but I didn't, I had you. And you were and still are way cooler than any other parent. You let me sleep in your bed when I don't want to be alone and you let me eat ice cream for breakfast sometimes. No, I- Idon't need that woman in my life.
Tim's heart ached as he listened to Olivia pour out her emotions as her voice breaks, feeling a lump form in his throat.
Tim- Livi, I'm so sorry you had to go through all of that. You're right, Isabel's absence has left a big void in both our lives. But you know what? You've shown incredible strength and resilience through it all. You've grown into such a remarkable young woman, and I'm incredibly proud of you.
Olivia sniffled, wiping away a tear as she looked up at her father with watery eyes.
Olivia- Thanks, Dad. I'm sorry for getting upset. It's just...
Tim pulled her into a warm embrace, holding her close as they shared a moment of shared sorrow and love.
Tim- It's okay to feel that way, Liv. But just know that you'll never be alone. We're a team, you and me, and we'll get through this together. I promise.
Tears welled up in Tim's eyes as he pulled Olivia into his lap in a tighter hug, feeling overwhelmed with love and gratitude for his daughter.
As tears welled up in Tim's eyes, he held Olivia tightly in his arms, feeling the weight of her words and the depth of their bond. He buried his face in her hair, inhaling deeply as he fought to keep his own emotions in check.
Tim- You don't ever have to apologize for feeling upset, Livi. Your feelings are valid, and I'm here for you, no matter what. And you're right, we don't need anyone else to complete our family. We have each other, and that's all that matters.
Olivia nodded against his chest, her own tears mingling with his as they clung to each other in silent understanding.
Olivia- Maybe Lucy
She chuckled
Tim smiled softly, despite the heaviness of their conversation, appreciating Olivia's attempt to lighten the mood.
Tim- Yeah, maybe Lucy. She's been like family to us, hasn't she?
Olivia nodded, a small smile playing on her lips as she wiped away her tears.
Olivia- Yeah, she has.
Tim pressed a kiss to the top of Olivia's head, feeling a glimmer of hope amid their shared sorrow.
With Olivia still in his arms, Tim walked towards the front door of their house, his heart heavy but filled with love for his daughter. As he reached for the doorknob, he paused, unwilling to let go of the precious girl in his arms.
Olivia- Dad we forgot the bags
Tim- We'll get them tomorrow, sweetheart.
Tim gently shifted Olivia's weight to one arm, using his free hand to open the door. Once inside, he closed the door softly behind him, still holding Olivia securely against him.
Tim savored the warmth and familiarity of their home, grateful for the sanctuary it provided. He didn't want to let go of Olivia just yet, not after the emotional conversation they had shared in the car.
Olivia- can I sleep with you tonight?
Tim- sure, I'll just take a quick shower and then we can watch a movie
Olivia- I want to take a bath
Tim- A bath it is, then.
Tim quickly made his way to the bathroom, filling the tub with warm water and adding a few drops of Olivia's favorite bubble bath, when she walked into the bathroom
Olivia- I can do that by myself
Tim smiled warmly at Olivia's independence but also appreciated her understanding.
Tim- I know you can, sweetheart. But I enjoy doing these little things for you. No matter how old you get, I'll always be here to take care of you.
Olivia's expression softened as she took in her father's words, a mixture of gratitude and affection shining in her eyes.
Olivia- Thanks, Dad. I appreciate it.
Tim watched Olivia head to her room, feeling a sense of pride in his daughter's growing independence.
Once the bath was ready, Tim returned to Olivia's room to let her know.
Tim- The bath is all set for you, Livi. Take your time and enjoy.
Olivia smiled brightly, grateful for her dad's thoughtfulness.
Olivia- Thanks, Dad. You're the best.
Tim returned her smile, feeling a warmth spread through his heart at her words.
Tim- Anything for you, sweetheart. I'll be in the living room when you're ready.
Tim nodded, giving Olivia a reassuring smile before heading to his own bathroom to take a quick shower. The warm water cascaded over him, washing away the some of the day's stress and leaving him feeling refreshed.
Once he was done, Tim grabbed the bags from the car and quietly placed them in Olivia's room. With that task complete, he made his way to the living room and settled onto the couch, waiting patiently for his daughter to join him.
Tim smiled as he heard Olivia's voice calling out to him from the bathroom.
Olivia- Dad, I forgot to grab a towel. Can you bring me one, please?
Tim- Of course, sweetheart. I'll be right there.
Tim got up from the couch and made his way to the linen closet, grabbing a fluffy towel for Olivia. He then walked back to the bathroom and knocked gently on the door.
Tim- do you want me to leave it here so you can grab it?
Olivia- You can come in, Dad. It's okay.
As Tim entered the bathroom, he saw Olivia sitting comfortably in the bathtub, surrounded by foamy bubbles (he couldn't see anything accept her shoulders and up, and even if he would see her, get over it. It's his daughter). Her face lit up with a smile when she saw him.
Tim smiled warmly, feeling a surge of paternal affection.
He approached the bathtub and hung the fluffy towel on the rack nearby
Tim- Here you go. One fluffy towel, just for you.
Olivia- Thanks, Dad. You're the best.
Tim returned her smile warmly.
Tim- Anything for you, sweetheart. Let me know if you need anything else.
With that, Tim left Olivia to enjoy her bath and went to his room to prepare some thing for their movie night.
Moments later, Olivia emerged from the bathroom, her hair still slightly damp from the bath. She padded into the living room wearing her favorite pajamas.
Olivia- I'm ready, Dad.
Tim smiled warmly as Olivia entered his room, looking comfortable and relaxed in her favorite pajamas.
Tim- You look cozy. How was the bath?
Olivia settled into the bed next to him, tucking her legs underneath her.
Olivia- It was great. Thanks for getting everything ready.
Tim nodded, a thoughtful expression crossing his face as he reached out to gently tousle Olivia's damp hair.
Tim- Your hair's still a little wet. Let me help you dry it off.
Olivia smiled appreciatively as Tim got the blow dryer and gently began to dry her hair. The warm air enveloped her, and she closed her eyes, feeling relaxed and content in her father's care.
After Tim ensured Olivia's hair was completely dry, he set the blow dryer aside, and they settled in to watch their chosen movie. Olivia snuggled up next to Tim, feeling grateful for his comforting presence.
As they watched the movie, Tim occasionally stole glances at Olivia, noticing a pensive expression on her face. Halfway through the movie, he noticed tears glistening in her eyes.
Tim's heart clenched with concern, and he gently paused the movie, turning to face Olivia with a worried expression.
Tim- Sweetheart, are you okay? You seem upset.
He paused the movie as Olivia blinked back her tears, trying to compose herself before speaking.
Olivia- Yeah, I'm fine. I was just thinking about the conversation we had earlier.
Tim's concern softened into understanding as Olivia spoke, though he could still sense the weight of her emotions.
Tim- I understand. That was a lot to talk about. How are you feeling about it now?
Olivia- I'm feeling a bit better now, Dad. It's just... I didn't realize how much it all still affects me.
Tim- It's okay to feel that way, sweetheart. Sometimes, these things take time to process.
Olivia- I know, but I hate it.
Tim wrapped his arms around Olivia, pulling her into a warm embrace as she rested her head against his chest. He could feel her heartbeat against his own, a steady rhythm that mirrored his own emotions.
Olivia- I don't want to be upset about it but I can't help it.
Tim tightened his embrace, offering Olivia comfort through his reassuring presence.
Tim- It's okay, Livi. You're allowed to feel upset. It doesn't mean you're weak or that you're not handling things well. It just means you're human.
Olivia- But I wish I could be stronger, like you.
Tim- You're already stronger than you know, sweetheart. You've faced so much with courage and resilience. And I'm here for you every step of the way.
Olivia- I don't even know why I'm upset. I'mean I- I don't know her. The only things I know about her is stuff, you told me. I hate her.
Tim gently lifted Olivia's chin, meeting her teary eyes with a soft smile.
Tim- You don't have to rush through your feelings. It's okay to take your time to heal. And remember, healing isn't a linear process. It's normal to have good days and bad days. What matters is that you keep moving forward, one step at a time.
Olivia nodded, her expression reflecting a mixture of gratitude and uncertainty.
Olivia- I'll try, Dad. I just don't want to disappoint you.
Tim's heart swelled with affection for his daughter, and he hugged her tighter.
Tim- You could never disappoint me. I'm proud of the person you are, and I'll always be here to support you, no matter what.
As she puts her head down again she sees a wet spot on his t-shirt.
Olivia's eyes widened as she noticed the wet spot on her father's shirt where her tears had fallen. A pang of guilt washed over her as she realized the impact her emotions had on him.
Olivia- Dad, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to...
Tim gently brushed away her apology with a warm smile.
Tim- It's okay, sweetheart. They're nothing to be sorry about.
He gently guided her head back down on his chest and just sat there holding his daughter.
Tim felt Olivia's weight gradually shift against him as she drifted off to sleep, her breathing steady and calm. He held her close, cherishing the quiet moment together.
As Olivia slept soundly in his arms, Tim couldn't help but reflect on their conversation earlier and the depth of their bond. Despite the challenges they faced, they always found strength in each other's presence.
With a sense of peace settling over him, Tim closed his eyes, allowing himself to savor the precious moment of connection with his daughter.