The rain poured steadily outside, drumming against the roof and splashing into the puddles that dotted the ground. Inside the warm little home, Lily, a clever and caring young girl, stood by the window, watching her dad pull on his coat and boots.
“Dad, do you really have to go?” Lily asked, her voice tinged with worry.
Her father smiled and patted her head gently. “I’ll be fine, sweetheart. Just need to check on the barn and make sure the animals are safe from the rain. I won’t be long.”
As her dad stepped out into the storm, umbrella in hand, Lily’s heart ached. She hated to see him braving the cold rain alone, but she knew it was important. Still, she couldn’t just sit and wait. An idea sparked in her mind.
Lily dashed to the kitchen and started preparing a small surprise. She boiled water and reached for her dad’s favorite mug, carefully stirring cocoa powder and a touch of sugar into the hot water. As the rich, chocolatey aroma filled the air, she smiled to herself.
While the cocoa brewed, Lily grabbed a dry towel and laid it out by the fire to warm. She even set out her dad’s slippers by the door, knowing his boots would be soaked through when he returned.
By the time her dad stepped back inside, dripping wet but smiling with relief, Lily was waiting. “Welcome back, Dad!” she chirped, handing him the warm towel.
Her dad laughed, touched by her thoughtfulness. “You’re my little angel, Lily.”
“And here’s some hot cocoa to warm you up!” Lily added, presenting the steaming mug with a proud grin.
As the two sat by the fire, the rain continuing to patter outside, they shared a quiet moment of gratitude and love. For Lily, it was a simple way to show her dad how much she cared, and for her dad, it was a reminder of the incredible bond they shared.
