Running into the road - Evan Buckley

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Willow Buckley - 4

The sun was already up, casting a golden glow across the city, as Buck and his four-year-old daughter Willow made their way to the local park. Buck loved these mornings with her before heading to the station for his shift. It was their special time together, just father and daughter.

"Look, Daddy! The swings!" Willow's eyes sparkled with excitement as they entered the park. She immediately made a beeline for the swing set, her little legs pumping with enthusiasm.

Buck smiled, following her. "Alright, let's get you swinging." He gently placed her on the swing and began pushing her. Willow's laughter filled the air as she soared higher and higher.

"Daddy, higher!" she squealed, her blonde curls bouncing with each push.

"Hold on tight," Buck warned playfully, giving her a gentle push. He loved seeing her so happy and carefree.

"Look, Daddy! I'm flying!" Willow shouted, her hair blowing back as she kicked her legs out.

"You sure are, kiddo!" Buck called back, a proud smile on his face.

After a few more minutes of swinging, Willow jumped off, landing on her feet with a triumphant grin. "Let's play tag, Daddy!"

"Tag? You're it!" Buck tapped her lightly on the shoulder and took off running, weaving through the playground equipment.

Willow squealed with delight and chased after him, her little legs pumping as fast as they could. Buck slowed down just enough to let her catch up, enjoying the sound of her laughter. They ran around the slides, ducked under the monkey bars, and zigzagged through the climbing frames.

Finally, Willow managed to tag him. "Got you, Daddy!"

Buck pretended to stumble dramatically, falling to his knees. "Oh no! You got me! You're too fast, Willow!"

She giggled and clapped her hands, clearly proud of herself. "Your turn to be it!"

Buck stood up and brushed off his knees. "Alright, you better run!" He chased after her, but this time he made sure to keep it a close game, letting her feel the thrill of almost being caught.

After a while, they both needed a break. Buck sat down on a bench, and Willow climbed up beside him, still catching her breath. She leaned her head against his shoulder, and he wrapped an arm around her.

"Daddy, I love playing with you," she said softly, looking up at him with her big, innocent eyes.

Buck's heart melted. "I love playing with you too, Willow. You make every day special."

She smiled and nestled closer. They sat there for a few moments, enjoying the peacefulness of the park and the warmth of the sun. Buck cherished these moments, knowing how quickly time flew by.

After their rest, Willow hopped off the bench and ran over to the merry-go-round. "Daddy, spin me!"

Buck followed her, giving the merry-go-round a gentle push. Willow held on tightly, her laughter ringing out as she spun around and around. He watched her, his heart full of love and pride.

"Faster, Daddy!" she called out, and Buck obliged, giving it a bit more speed.

As the merry-go-round slowed down, Willow jumped off and ran towards the sandbox. She started building a sandcastle, and Buck joined her, helping her shape the towers and walls.

"Look, Daddy! Our castle is so big!" Willow exclaimed, patting down the sand.

"It sure is, Willow. You're a great builder," Buck said, admiring their handiwork.

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