Red_Roses_and_Black_Dahlias_-_Macy_T

Her tenth birthday, our first trip to Mexico together, the first time I took
them skiing (that time was a mess and Sofia ended up breaking her ankle).
There even was a picture of the two of us the night of the daddy-daughter
dance five years ago.
“It’s okay. Soon the twins will be there and you’ll get to enjoy their
childhood. You won’t need me anymore.” She bumped my shoulder with hers
jokingly and I frowned.
I knew she thought there was a part of truth in her words. In her head, we
would love them more than her solely because they had our DNA. It was
bullshit.
“Don’t say that, Pretty Girl.” She looked away and I instantly knew it was
because she didn’t want me to see her tears. It always made her emotional to
hear me call her that.
I knew her like the back of my hand.
“Hey, come here.” Slinging my arm around her shoulders, I brought her to
my chest.
Light sniffling could be heard in the room and for a second I just wouldn’t
speak, emotions clogging my throat.
“I hope you don’t seriously believe the twins will replace you, Little
Rose.” She shrugged. “Valentina, look at me.” After a few seconds she did
and seeing her cry made me feel miserable, as always.
“You know I love you, right?” She gulped and nodded wordlessly. “That
will never change. We might not be blood, but you and I, we’re family, Pretty
Girl. You’re the family I chose, and, in my heart, you will always be my first
daughter, you hear me? Nobody can replace you.”
She didn’t say anything and simply pushed her face against my chest,
sobbing. I wrapped my arm around her and rubbed her back like she’s