Dad is Proud of You

"Do you know what she's drawing?" Agatha asked curiously as she opened the rice cooker to check the rice. "I didn't see it up close, afraid to disturb. I thought you already knew?" Agatha shook her head. "I went straight to the kitchen earlier. But lately, she seems serious. It seems like she's drawing something different from usual. I was even forbidden to see it." "What does she usually draw?" Jayden regretted not seeing Layla's drawings because he was too busy. "I knew you wouldn't know. It seems like you should take some time to ask about Layla's hobbies and interests." Jayden's lips twitched slightly. "One of your tasks is indeed to tell me what I don't know. I feel like Layla is much more open with you." Agatha sighed. She remembered her childhood when her mother used to ask about her hobbies. Her father fell into the category of being insensitive, never even thinking to ask about things like that. Well, but Jayden was right. As a caregiver, she also had the duty to make Layla grow and develop well. Physically and psychologically. One of them is paying attention to her hobbies and talents. "Usually, what I often see is that she likes drawing cartoon heroes like the ones she sees on TV. You must already know that Layla likes cartoons with strong characters," Agatha replied shortly after while moving the vegetables to a bowl. Jayden smiled upon hearing Agatha's story about Layla's hobby. "Yes, I know. She often talks about her favorite heroes and how she wants to be like them one day." While helping Agatha arrange the plates on the dining table, Jayden continued, "Maybe one day we can take her to an art exhibition or an event related to cartoon heroes. It would be a fun experience for her." Agatha nodded in agreement. "That's a great idea! I'm sure Layla will be very happy. And who knows, maybe later on she will also be interested in taking drawing classes or just deepening her hobby." They finished preparing dinner with a mix of emotions and happiness, planning a future full of support and joy for Layla. "You should always support her hobbies, Jayden. As for learning matters, I think Layla is doing well enough. It would be better if her hobbies are continuously honed to be useful as she grows into adulthood." "Sure, Agatha. I will always support and encourage her to continue developing her hobby. Who knows, maybe one day she will be able to produce extraordinary works." As they sat together at the dining table, a warm and loving atmosphere filled the air between them, strengthening their bond even more. In this togetherness, they planned a future full of light and hope. After dinner was prepared, Agatha hurriedly called Layla in her room. "Layla, dinner is ready. Come here," Agatha called softly while knocking on Layla's bedroom door. Layla, who was busy drawing cartoon heroes on her study table, quickly tidied up her things and opened the door. "Done, Aunt Agatha. I'll come right away," she replied eagerly. Together, they made their way to the dining room to enjoy the dinner prepared by Agatha. A warm family atmosphere was felt at all times together, creating beautiful memories to cherish. "How's Aunt's cooking, Layla?" Jayden asked as Layla enjoyed her meal. Layla nodded with a smile, "Delicious, Dad! Aunt always cooks delicious food." Jayden smiled satisfied. They both agreed. "That's good then. Aunt Agatha is indeed skilled in cooking. So, what are your plans after dinner, Sweetie?" Layla thought for a moment. "Maybe I'll continue my drawing, Dad. I want to create my own cartoon story one day." Jayden smiled proudly. "That's a great idea, Sweetie! Aunt Agatha and I will always support you. Don't hesitate to have high aspirations." They continued their dinner in a warm, supportive, and happy atmosphere in their small home. But suddenly, Layla covered her mouth as she just realized something. "Oops. Dad, you don't know yet." Jayden and Agatha simultaneously looked at Layla, then chuckled together. Jayden glanced briefly at Agatha, smiled, and then looked at Layla, who now looked surprised. Her expression was really cute. "No need to worry, Aunt Agatha has already told me everything." "Huh? Aunt?" Layla immediately turned to Agatha, who chuckled amusingly. "Your father has the right to know, Layla." "But, Dad will surely be mad." Layla bowed her head, leaving Jayden and Agatha stunned. Then they looked at each other again. They thought it was really cute. "Hey, why would you think that? Does Dad's face look fierce now?" Jayden asked, pointing to his smiling face. Layla looked up, then shook her head innocently. "Dad wouldn't really be mad at me?" "Why would that happen? Did you do something wrong, hm?" Layla turned to Agatha, who also gazed at her gently. "Is it not okay if Dad finds out, Aunt?" Agatha nodded calmly. "Why are you afraid to tell your dad, Layla? There must be a reason, right?" Layla bowed her head again, playing with her fingers under the table. "It's...because my friend got caught drawing by her dad, then she got scolded and was forbidden to draw anymore. I thought...dad would do the same. I still want to keep drawing, Aunt." Jayden chuckled affectionately. "So that's the reason? Oh, Layla. Dad is actually happy to hear that you have a hobby. Especially drawing. Wow, even Dad can't draw until now. Drawing is much harder for Dad than counting. You're great to love that hobby, Layla. Dad is proud of you." Layla raised her head, her eyes widening instantly. Agatha smiled amusingly watching her. Layla must be confused now because Jayden's response wasn't as bad as she thought. "Dad will support you, Layla. It doesn't matter if your grades at school are not the highest, but at least you have that extraordinary talent. Dad won't be angry even if you get bad grades. Dad wasn't smart back then either. You just focus on honing your talent. Understand, Layla?" Layla nodded enthusiastically with sparkling eyes. "I understand, Dad! I really understand! Thank you, Dad! I love you, Dad!" *** Besides Agatha and Jayden's relationship getting closer, Agatha has also started opening up to Aluna. Like now, they are currently in the campus cafeteria. Having lunch together while joking and laughing. "Agatha, do you know how lonely I feel?" Aluna quipped in the midst of their laughter. "Of course, I know you're an only child." "Let's come to my house tomorrow!" Agatha almost choked on her meatball. "Seriously? After the last time when you still wanted to invite me?" Aluna chuckled, remembering when she invited Agatha to her house last Sunday. "Why, what's wrong with that?" "Why are you asking why? She didn't even look at me, Aluna. I didn't even get to shake hands and greet her, but what? Your mom just passed by me and went straight upstairs. And now you want me to come there again? Won't I be kicked out?"