With tears welling in her eyes and a grip to my shirt that pleaded for more time, I had to say good bye once more. I wiped up her tears with my sleeve just before hugging the small child. I softly told her that in only a short number of days, I would take her away for good. Seeing her smile at my comment made me smile as well. I stood back up and patted her on the head, which she responded with a giggle.
I had to miss time with her to drive to another town for damage control on skipping those days of work, but was unable to stay away for long since I went back to visit little Lea a short time after, albeit risking another major deal with a fellow company; but that was not what mattered to me.