Summary: A tribute to that nutter with all the photographs. (one-shot)
Disclaimer: Whoever created subtitles is a genius. Sadly, I am not, and do not own Fullmetal Alchemist or any of its characters.
"Hush little baby, don't say a word. Daddy's gonna buy you a mockingbird."
Maes Hughes rocked his daughter in his arms, singing softly to her. Elysia. His Elysia. Only four years old, and already more beautiful than a rose.
"And if that mockingbird don't sing, Daddy's gonna buy you a diamond ring."
The little girl in his arms squirmed, getting more comfortable. He could feel her heartbeat against his chest; a steady thumping in time to the music. He cuddled her closer.
"And if that diamond ring turns to brass, Daddy's gonna buy you a looking glass."
His angel relaxed a bit. Chunks of her golden-red hair spilled out of the scrunchie holding them back, and her rosy lips turned up in a smile.
"And if that looking glass gets broke, Daddy's gonna buy you a billy-goat..."
Her head lolled to the side, and her breathing steadied. He bent down to lay her on her bed, but her small hand snagged his, and she murmured in her sleep.
"One more, Daddy, just one more," she begged.
He smiled and smoothed back a lock of her hair, "Maybe tomorrow night."
Elysia Hughes bent down over her father's grave. Her green eyes shone in the fading light of the day; tears flowed freely down her alabaster cheeks, speckling her already-damp dress. She lay a single red rose down on the tomstone, and straightened up. Behind her, she could hear her husband's voice.
"Honey, we have to go! The kids are getting antsy!"
Turning, she walked slowly to her car, allowing a mask of feigned happiness to settle over her features. But under her breath, she hummed the last memory her father had ever given her.
"And if that mockingbird don't sing, Daddy's gonna buy you a diamond ring..."
...So I don't do so great with sap. But please review and tell me what you thought.