First Bloom
The green field rolled out in a vast expanse around Tom and Sybbie, framing their picnic like a portrait. Tom hadn't wanted to come outside, not really, but ever since Sybbie had come downstairs to spend time with him, she hadn't taken her eyes off the window and the beautiful day. So he went down to the servants hall, packed a picnic, and brought her out.
"Dada!" Sybbie squealed, pointing happily at a splash of color in the grass.
"What's that, Syb?" He scooted over to where she sat. He found himself staring at a small, fresh bluebell. His eyes filled with burning tears. "Oh, it's the… first one.The first bloom."
"Dada?" She glanced up, noticing his crumbling face.
He swiped his tears away slowly. "I'm all right."
She crawled over, into his lap. She rested her head against his chest quietly.
Running a hand through her curls, he kissed the top of her head. "Thank you, love." He reached out and brushed the flower with his finger. He had always loved how Sybil's favorite flower matched her beautiful eyes so perfectly. And now, he saw how perfectly they matched their daughter's eyes.
Sybbie tilted up her head to see him, smiling widely.
"Happy birthday, Sybbie."