Chapter 43: Sin in a Whisper
"One... two... three... blow out the candle, dear!"
The broad-shouldered man with a greying beard held the birthday cake steady in both hands, the candle shaped like a number nine flickering softly on top.
With a big smile blooming on her tiny lips, Lethia leaned forward and blew the candle out.
"Alright... congratulations, dear. Daddy will always give you the best in this world, my princess." He scooped the little girl into a warm embrace as she sat on the white chair.
They stayed there, tangled in each other’s arms, and little Lethia looked so happy with her hazel eyes sparkling with joy.
Her golden hairclip clamped onto her bangs made her look even more darling. Her tiny hands patted her father’s arm again and again, too excited to sit still.
Then he pulled a gift box from a bag nearby and handed it to her.
"Whoaa... a gift for me?"
"Yes, dear... a gift for you. Open it."
Young Lethia peeled the box open, and the moment she saw what was inside, her whole face lit up, grinning wide from ear to ear. Her small fingers reached in and pulled out a red scarf nestled inside.
Her father beamed, just as delighted to see his only daughter glowing with joy. He reached out to help wrap the scarf gently around her neck.