Daddy's Precious Little Girl

The Picnic

Ethan's POV

Wednesday

The dining hall buzzed with the usual lunchtime energy as Ashlynn and I walked in. Her hand was snug in mine, and she bounced slightly with each step, clearly in a good mood. It had been a smooth morning, and seeing her so cheerful made it all the better.

We reached our usual table in a quiet corner, and I helped her climb into her chair, setting her tray in front of her before taking my seat. Ashlynn immediately began inspecting her food, carefully rearranging it like she always did.

"Daddy, can I have my apple now?" she asked, looking up at me with wide eyes.

"Of course, sweet girl," I said, reaching for the knife to slice it for her.

As I began slicing the apple, I caught movement out of the corner of my eye. I looked up to see Franklin walking toward us, Marcy at his side. Her hand was clasped in his, and she looked calmer than she had a week ago, though still hesitant.

"Do you mind if we join you again today?" Franklin asked, his voice steady but cautious.

I studied him for a moment, noting the shift in his demeanor since their return. "Not at all," I replied, gesturing to the chairs. "Have a seat."

Franklin pulled out a chair for Marcy before sitting across from me. Marcy hesitated briefly but climbed into her seat, her eyes flickering toward Ashlynn, who was happily munching on a piece of her apple.

"Hi, Marcy!" Ashlynn said brightly, waving at her. "Daddy's cutting my apple. It tastes extra good when he does it."

Marcy gave a small smile, glancing up at Franklin.

Franklin seemed to notice her uncertainty and leaned toward her slightly. "Marcy, do you want me to cut your apple for you?" he asked gently.

Marcy blinked in surprise, her fingers brushing against the apple on her tray. "Um... okay," she said softly.

Franklin picked up his knife and carefully began slicing her apple, his movements deliberate. He glanced at me occasionally, mimicking the way I had sliced Ashlynn's apple earlier. Once he finished, he slid the plate back to her.

"Thank you," Marcy murmured, her voice quiet but sincere.

"You're welcome," Franklin replied with a small smile.

I couldn't help but notice how much more relaxed Marcy seemed compared to when I first saw her with Franklin. Whatever he was doing, it was working. Slowly but surely, he seemed to be figuring out this whole caregiver thing.

"So," I said, handing Ashlynn her neatly sliced apple pieces, "what's everyone looking forward to this afternoon?"

Ashlynn's eyes lit up. "Pirates!" she exclaimed. "Storytime is about pirates today! Miss Harper said it's going to be a big adventure!"

Markie, who had just arrived at the table with Lana, chimed in enthusiastically. "Pirates are the best! Do you think we'll find treasure?"

"Maybe we could build a pirate ship with blocks after Storytime! It could be huge!" Markie added, practically bouncing in his seat.

The table erupted into chatter as Ashlynn and Markie began discussing pirate ships, treasure maps, and adventures on the high seas. Even Marcy perked up, her eyes sparkling faintly as she listened to the conversation.

"Marcy," Ashlynn said, turning to her with a grin, "you can be the captain! You'd make a great pirate captain."

Marcy's cheeks flushed, and she ducked her head shyly. "Maybe," she whispered, but the hint of a smile on her lips said more than words ever could.