I stand up and move towards the door, but when I see him staring at me intently, I stop. I realise he is truly moved. I turn on my heels and go to hug him tightly as I say,

"You are my beloved father, you always have been."

"I wish I could have always been like we are today. Can we, from now on, my girl, continue to be like this? Can I keep being your confidant, your secret friend, or your best friend?"

"No."

"No?" he asks, disappointed.

"It's not necessary for you to be like that. I just want you to be this father that you have shown...