He took a deep breath. He knew she needed this. It was time. He went to the dressing room, retrieved the box, and walked into the living room where his daughter was waiting.
" Kiddo? "
" Yes? "
" I've got something for you."
" What is it? "
" It's a little something your mum prepared, just in case you ever had to grow up without her. I've been waiting for the right moment to give it to you. Well, I think it's time. For now, I'll only give you one thing from inside the box, but the rest will have to wait until you're a bit older. Are you okay with that? "She nodded. He opened the box, took out a USB stick, and inserted it into his computer. He handed the laptop to Ellie.
" When you're ready, press this, okay? "
" Okay... Did you already watch it? "
" No, kiddo. You'll be the first. If you need me, I'll be in the kitchen. "He kissed her and left her alone. She placed the computer on her lap and pressed the button.
" Hello, sweetheart... It's me, Mum. Today you are one week old. I've been waiting for you my entire life. If you're watching this video, it means I'm not here anymore. I'm sure Dad has already explained why.
First, I'm so sorry, baby. I fought so hard to stay alive, to come home to you and Dad, but sometimes even our strongest fights aren't enough. I'm sure you have a lot of questions, so let me introduce myself to you. My name is Lucy, and I am so proud to be your mum.
I met your daddy at work. We're both police officers. He was my TO (training officer), and I was his rookie. We were friends at first, but one day, we realized there was something more between us. He asked me out, we kissed, he proposed, and we had the most beautiful wedding. Then came you.
You are the best thing that has ever happened to us. Baby, let me tell you, you have a village around you. All of Mummy and Daddy's friends from work already love you so much. Take care of Tamara, and love her like a sister.
It's not easy to film this. There's so much I want to share with you, and I'm scared I'll forget something important. That's why I made you a box filled with memories—from me, with me, and with us.
Be proud of who you are. Be proud to be you. Be the person you want to be and never stop dreaming. You are capable of everything. And no matter what, I will always be proud of you. You are enough. I promise you, you are enough.
Your dad fell in love with you the moment he heard your heartbeat for the first time. You brought him so much joy and love. He will always be there for you. And if, sometimes, he acts a little strangely, it's just because he's worried. Be gentle with him. He will always choose you first.
I am so proud of you, baby. I will always protect you. I know I'm not here physically, but I'm everywhere. I'm in your heart, your thoughts, your skin, and your dad's heart.
I love you to the moon and back... and even more. I'm so proud to be your mum. Tell your dad I'm still in love with him, even from here. And for the rest, he already knows everything.
I miss you, baby. Watch this video whenever you need it. I love you, and I always will."
Tim heard everything—her voice, her face, her words. He missed her. So much.
Here's the corrected version with improved grammar, punctuation, and clarity:
" Dadda? "
In her small voice, "Dadda" meant "I need you." He sat next to her, gently took the computer off her lap, and pulled her into his arms. She started crying. Maybe it was too much for an eight-year-old to handle.
" You okay, kiddo? "
" Hm hm. "
" No lies, baby. "
" I'm okay... I think. Mummy is beautiful. "
" Yes, she is. "
" Thank you, Daddy. Now I know Mama a bit more. "
" And every time you need to watch her, just tell me, okay? "
" Can we go see her later this week? I want to talk to her... but I can't make a video. "
" Of course, kiddo. You need anything? "
" A hug? "He smiled. Lucy would probably have answered the same way. Like mother, like daughter. He was glad he had made the decision to show her the video. Even though it was hard for him, Ellie deserved to know her mum. He hugged her tightly, pouring all his love into that embrace.
Ellie started asking more questions about Lucy—questions she needed answers to. She was building memories of her mother in the only way she could.
Later, Tim went back to his bedroom while Ellie watched a movie. He carefully put the box back in its place and paused to look at the picture on his bedside table.
"I'm still in love with you too, Luce... Thanks for the video. It was what she needed."
A moment later, he rejoined Ellie on the sofa. She rested her head on his lap, and he gently began to play with her hair. Like mother, like daughter.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
28/05/2024 : Hi everyone :) Short one for today. I had this in my head all day. I didn't want it to long. I needed short. What will be Ellie age on the next one ? Please vote and comment, it helps! Take care of you, hope you enjoyed it, thank you :) xx

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