It was the weekend before the big birthday party when we had finally all gathered for dinner after a busy week at work when I decided to pop the question. “So what do you want for your sixth birthday, big girl!”

We were sitting around the dinner table and after a few moments of mulling she thoughtfully replied, “I want my necklace, Daddy.”

Mama laughed and Maggie said, “You mean the one your daddy’s been wearing for you?”

“Yes,” Layla said politely.

I looked over at Mama and she nodded and I looked at Maggie and she smiled and I said, “Okay, sweetheart! On your sixth birthday I’ll be happy to give you your necklace!”

Needless to say I was ready to give it to her. Wearing a little silver heart around my neck the last six years was interesting to say the least, but I had performed my duty without complaint, even when my adoring wife would chide me and call me a girly man for wearing it. She was just kidding of course but she couldn’t pass up the opportunity to get a good laugh.

Mama said, “Your daddy has done such a good job of protectin’ your beautiful necklace. I’m sure it’s ready for you now.”