Chapter 16 - The Science Fair Morning
The morning of the Oakridge Public Academy autumn science fair arrived with crisp, golden sunlight streaming through the windows and painting the kitchen in warm shades of amber.
Emma was awake before my alarm even went off. When I walked into the kitchen, she was already dressed in her favorite blue sweater, meticulously checking her cardboard model of the solar system to ensure Saturn’s rings hadn't shifted during the night.
“Good morning, astronomer,” I smiled, pouring my black coffee.
“Good morning, Daddy! Today’s the big day!” she announced, her eyes wide with nervous excitement. “Do you think the judges will like my rotation model?”
“If they don't, they’ll have to answer directly to a United States Army General,” I joked gently.
Emma giggled, running over to wrap her arms around my waist. “You’re not a General today, Daddy. You’re just my dad.”
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“And that’s the only title I’ve ever cared about,” I replied, kissing the top of her head.
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