300 +
Cambria reminded him so much of himself as a puppy. It was as endearing as it was frightening; if they really were as alike as he suspected, then his little girl lacked confidence in herself—just as he had as a child. He figured that such a thing wasn't too uncommon, and nor was it something to worry too much about. Because Kansas would fix it. He wanted to make her feel valued, and beautiful, and special. All the things that were true about her, and that she needed to believe. He had read that young women who had good relationships with their fathers were stronger in their adult lives than those who didn't, in their relationships and in themselves. He wanted this for Cambria more than anything. And he worried about it more with her than with Amata, because his other daughter was definitely surer of herself than was Cam.
The necklace had fallen into his hands several days ago, but he'd wanted to await this special day to give it to her. That way, she could wear it shifted, and take it on and off whenever she wished with ease. Kansas waited for her to sit and turn around, smiling all the while. He unclasped the chain, draped it around her slim neck, and closed the clasp. His excitement rose; he held the kite in his hands and walked around to face her, studying the necklace. Beautiful! he told her, still grinning. He hoped she knew just how beautiful she was. Maybe she would look down at the necklace and remember that she had parents who believed in her, both he and Savina. Here; you take the spool... he offered a hand to help her to her feet. ... And run backward, with the wind at your back. I'll release the kite, and it.... should... fly.
