"So, you're my 'dad'?" The subtle sounds of the city were deafened by Hilde's soft inquiry. It was funny, for the world to be drowned out by an elementary schooler.
I shrugged, cracking the warmest yet most professional smile I could muster, "For the day, yeah." While being a 'Dad For Hire' came with its own set of challenges and frustrations, I didn't mind it too much as long as clients were willing to pay me for my time; orphans, children of divorce, kids in need of a little attention. "I'm not sure what kind of father you need, but I'll do my best to help out."
She nodded in acceptance and looked down at her feet before glancing up again. Hilde was the bookish type, but she certainly had some spunk to her; thick yet hip glasses, a somehow fitting yet loose cardigan, and hair that fell just past her shoulders in an odd sort of way. A cute girl, all in all.
"Well, you paid for the whole day, kiddo. We'll do anything you want, promise."
Hilde paused for a moment, a light blush filling her cheeks before she slowly raised her head back up. Her gaze met mine with such intensity that I had to look away or risk losing my composure. There was something endearing about this girl, something that set her apart from the numerous clients I'd served before. A certain sweetness that couldn't be imitated, an innocence that wore away at my defenses. She stared at me for a few moments longer before speaking, "