"Dad! I'm not old enough to go to a bar," Maria said, even though her wide-eyed expression showed how excited she was about the idea.

"Don't worry about it, baby angel. You're almost old enough. Just act like you belong and no one will know the difference. We'll just pretend we're on a date."

Maria giggled with pleasure. "Guess I owe you since I ruined yours."

"Trust me, sweetie, you didn't. There's nothing more important to me than you. I'd rather be here with you than anywhere else. I'm just sorry your party didn't turn out the way you hoped."

"I hate those people." She scowled, but then lightened up....