The large mascot lost its footing and tumbled onto the grass, and the little girl landed right in its embrace.
"I love you, Daddy!"
The little girl cried out in a clear, bright voice, cuddling playfully in the mascot’s arms.
The person in the costume took off the head, revealing a young man’s face, warmed by a gentle smile. He stroked his precious daughter’s cheek. "Happy birthday, my sweet Chloe. See? Daddy didn’t break his promise this year. I came back just in time for your birthday."
"Mhm, Daddy’s the best."
The little girl nodded emphatically, then turned her head to the young woman beside them. "Mommy’s the best, too! I love you both so much!"
The afternoon sun was so warm. One by one, the gift boxes on the white swing were unwrapped. The young man and woman sat on either side of the little girl, their world filled with endless laughter and joy.
It was so beautiful, so heartwarming.
But everything began to fade, the colors draining away as if a play were reaching its finale, until all that remained was black and white. The sounds of laughter and joy receded into the distance.
’Don’t... no...’
Chloe Reed screamed internally, a hoarse, anguished sound escaping her throat.
’I don’t want to wake up.’
’Dad, Mom...’
’Please don’t stop loving me.’
"Chloe? Chloe!"
A man’s anxious, worried voice reached her ears. Chloe Reed’s eyes flew open. Her breathing was ragged and uneven, and her cheeks were damp with tears.
Walker Grant reached out, cupping her face and wiping away the tears that streamed from the corners of her eyes.
"Don’t be scared. It was just a dream. I’m here..."
Walker Grant held her close, comforting her in a gentle voice.
Chloe Reed stared into the pitch-dark room, her eyes vacant and hollow. She couldn’t stop her quiet sobs.
’Was it just a dream?’



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