300 +
It was probably better that Cambria could not detect Kansas' uncertainty. He didn't like to think of his children realizing how sensitive he was; how worried and self-conscious he could be. He wanted them to view him as someone who could protect them, rather than as the pansy he was deep inside. Especially not Cambria. She was so delicate in his eyes, like a china doll. She needed to be handled carefully; reassured by his presence, not made to feel uncomfortable. It was not her job to make him happy... though in all honesty, she had a lot of leverage over him. He hadn't really let on how painful her ordeal with the cocaine had been for him—it just wasn't about him, and no one needed to know. In any case, she appeared excited enough about the kite, her smiling face all the reassurance he needed.
Next came her reaction to the gift. He really thought it was beautiful, almost as beautiful as his little girl. But she, of course, far outshone it. Her happiness made his whole body feel warm, and his tail picked up a steady beat behind him. She was excited about it. She liked it. He couldn't have asked for a more perfect thanks. As she threw her little arms around his neck and kissed his cheek, Kansas lifted his his Cambi off the ground and held her tight for a moment. He wanted her to know he could hold her, if she ever needed him to. He set her down, beaming. You're so welcome, honey. I'm glad you like it. Here, turn around and I'll put it on you, he said, asking more than demanding. If she didn't want to wear it know, he'd understand, but he really wanted to see it on her. Afterward, they'd get to the kites.
