The night was quiet, and the moonlight shone softly through the window. Lala lay in her own bed, hugging her stuffed toy tightly. But as the shadows danced on the walls and the house creaked in the silence, she began to feel uneasy.
Her little heart beat faster. “What if there are monsters under my bed?” she whispered to herself. The thought made her squeeze her toy even tighter. After a few minutes of tossing and turning, she sighed. “I can’t sleep like this…”
With determination, Lala slid out of bed, dragging her fluffy blanket behind her. She grabbed her pillow too and tiptoed quietly across the hallway. Step by step, she made her way to Dad’s room, clutching her things as if they were a shield.
When she peeked inside, she saw Dad already fast asleep. Carefully, she climbed onto the bed, placing her pillow beside his and covering herself with the blanket. As soon as she snuggled close, Dad stirred and opened one eye.
“Lala?” he asked in a sleepy voice. “What are you doing here?”
“I was scared to sleep alone,” she admitted softly. “Can I stay with you, Dad?”
Dad gave a warm smile and pulled the blanket over both of them. “Of course, sweetheart. You’re safe here.”
Lala relaxed instantly, resting her head on his arm. The fear melted away, replaced by the comfort of Dad’s steady breathing and gentle warmth. Within minutes, she drifted into a peaceful sleep.
That night, Dad whispered to himself, “My little girl is so brave—even when she’s scared.” And with Lala safe by his side, the house felt filled with love and calm.
