“That’s what I was thinking. But it’s up to you.”
She sits up straighter. “I think panties and a dress. But maybe you could fix my pigtails?”
“I’d love to.”
“Do you think I might have an accident if I wear panties?” Her eyes go wide.
“Nope. Not likely, Baby girl. Your body will learn that it’s okay to wet yourself only when you’re diapered.”
“Okay.” She throws her arms around me. “I’ve had the best day ever, Daddy. I’m so sorry I was naughty yesterday. I won’t do it again.”
I tip her back and kiss her nose. “No reason to be sorry. Your feelings are always valid.Always. And you were not naughty. You were scared. I totally understand. I don’t ever want you to worry about me being able to handle your feelings when you’re sad or scared or upset. My job is to help you feel better. Did I do that today?”
She smiles. “Yes, Daddy.”
“Good. Now, let’s pick out a dress and get your hair fixed so we can get to your parents’ house.”
“Are you nervous about having dinner with them?” she asks me as I carry her to the changing table.
“Nope. I already know they’re amazing people. They love you. I love you. I’m looking forward to getting to know them and reassuring them that I will always have your best interest at heart.”
Two hours later, I know everything is going to be okay with her parents. Dinner is over, and I’m sitting in the den with her father, Ben. He has grilled me like any father should.
I’m pretty sure the fact that I’m a detective helped both of her parents relax. I’m gainfully employed and capable of protecting her.
They watch me closely as I interact with her, and I know they love her to pieces and want the best for her. So do I.
After helping her mom in the kitchen, the two women enter the room. Josie shuffles toward me tentatively, wringing her hands together. I know she’s uncertain about where to sit, so I reach out a hand toward her.
Her shoulders relax as she approaches, and I lift her up and settle her on my lap, one hand around her hip, one hand wrapped around hers on her thighs.
She smiles at me and leans her head against my shoulder with a sigh. Good. I want her to be comfortable with me in front of her parents. Be herself. Be Little if she needs. It’s obvious her parents are incredibly supportive of her Little side, and I’m so pleased. Most people are not fortunate enough to have parents like hers.
Ilsa is smiling broadly as she sits next to her husband. She takes his hand and squeezes it. She opens her mouth a few times as if she wants to say something but decides not to.
“You seem very happy, honey,” Ben says, smiling at Josie.
“I am, Dad.” She flips her hands over beneath mine and squeezes. “I feel calm when I’m with Chase.” She sits up taller on my lap. “Did you know they make green catsup?”
Her mom shakes her head, smiling indulgently. “I didn’t know that.”
“It tastes the same, and I can eat it with my eyes open.”
Ben chuckles. “Maybe that will help you hit your mouth when you have french fries,” he teases.
“Dad…” She rolls her eyes.
We spend another hour chatting before Josie yawns and I pat her hip. “We should get going.”
She nods and wobbles when I set her on her feet. She’s had a rough few days. She needs sleep.
Her parents walk us to the door. Both of them look pleased as I help Josie into her coat. I’m confident I won them over and made great strides toward proving to them I can and will take care of their daughter.
Josie means the world to me, and I want them to know that.
After I get her buckled into the truck, I round to my side and start the engine. “Do you want to sleep at your apartment tonight, princess? Or Daddy’s house?”
She looks at me with wide eyes. “Oh. Did you want to drop me off?”
