The Husky

14.

I sit on the carpet in the living room, playing with a few of the toys that Henry has given me. But as time passes, I start to feel slightly restless. I keep looking over at him, who's sitting at his desk and working on his computer. I feel a little needy, wanting his attention.

But he told me not to disrupt him. I feel a pang of sadness, as I don't want to be a bad girl, defying him any longer. I want those praises a lot more. I want to be a good girl, as what I truly am. But at the same time, I just want a hug– to sit on his lap and be cuddled. I'm not even in the mood to play anymore. I've been playing for hours. I'm tired.

I pout slightly, feeling a little frustrated at the contradiction inside of me. Part of me, the part that's craving Daddy's attention, is telling me to go over and demand his cuddles, regardless of whether it means disobedience or not. But the other part of me, the part that's determined to be Daddy's good girl, knows that I have to behave and wait until he's done with work.

After a few moments of this internal struggle, I give in to my neediness and slowly walk over to the dining table.

He turns his gaze away from the screen, eyeing me up and down, as if calculating whether I need his attention or not.

"Eileen," he says, "what's wrong?"

He can tell... Well, of course he can tell.

"Nothing, Daddy," I say quietly, avoiding his eyes. "I just... tired," is all I manage to say.

Henry chuckles softly, seeing through my poor excuse. He knows that I'm not tired, that I'm just feeling needy and wanting attention. But he decides to play along for the moment.

"Oh, you're tired, are you?" he asks, his voice gentle and playful. "Is my little girl feeling a bit clingy today?"

I bite the insides of my lips, nodding.

He smirks, seeing my nod and knowing that I'm confirming his suspicions. He leans back in his chair, patting his lap.

"Come on, then. Climb on Daddy's lap."

I blush, but feeling giddy and excited about doing so. I smile from head to toe, feeling so blessed.

I quickly climb onto his lap, eagerly snuggling up against his chest. I sigh contentedly, feeling his strong arms wrap around me.

"Daddy," I murmur, nuzzling my face into his shirt.

"Yes, baby," he whispers, kissing the top of my head. "Daddy's here."

I smile, feeling that strong sense of relief again, making tears threaten to fall.

I take a deep breath, savoring the feeling of being held in Daddy's strong embrace. I feel so small and vulnerable right now, but so safe and protected at the same time. Being in his arms makes me feel like everything is alright. That I'm safe, in all the ways one can be safe.

"Daddy," I say again, my voice soft. It feels so good to finally say it. To embrace it– not holding back.

"Eileen," he breathes, "tell Daddy what's wrong."

Nothing's wrong, and that is exactly why it hurts. Because everything finally feels... like home.

I feel a wave of emotions wash over me at his words, feeling comforted by his concern and gentleness. I take a deep breath, trying to gather my thoughts.

"I know not to," I begin hesitantly. "But... can I just sit here with you for a little while? I promise I'll be quiet, I just... needy."

There's a brief moment of silence. "Is that the reason you're almost tearing up?" He asks.