Leo loved bedtime, but tonight was extra special. His daddy promised a fort! They gathered blankets, pillows, and Leo’s favorite stuffed lion, Roary. Daddy carefully draped a big blue blanket over the chairs in the living room, making a cozy cave.
“Wow!” Leo giggled, crawling inside. “It’s a castle!” Daddy chuckled and crawled in beside him. It was a little snug, but that made it even more fun. Roary got a special spot right between them.
“Now, what kind of story shall we tell?” Daddy asked, wiggling his eyebrows. Leo thought very hard. “A story about a brave little bear!” he declared.
“Excellent choice,” Daddy said. “Once upon a time, there was a little bear named Barnaby. Barnaby loved to explore, but sometimes he felt a little bit scared when the sun went down. He missed his mama.” Leo snuggled closer to his daddy.
“One night, Barnaby’s daddy built him a cozy den, just like our fort! He told Barnaby stories about twinkling stars and friendly fireflies. The stories made Barnaby feel safe and warm.”
Leo yawned. “Did Barnaby feel better?” he mumbled, already getting sleepy. “He did,” Daddy replied, stroking Leo’s hair. “Barnaby realized that even when things seem a little scary, having his daddy nearby made everything alright.”
“Just like you and me, Leo,” Daddy whispered. Leo smiled sleepily. He felt so loved and safe inside the fort with his daddy. Roary seemed to smile too.
Daddy continued the story, but Leo’s eyes were getting heavier and heavier. He listened to the sound of his daddy’s voice, feeling peaceful and warm. The fort felt like the safest place in the world.
Soon, Leo was fast asleep, dreaming of brave little bears and twinkling stars. Daddy gently kissed Leo’s forehead. He carefully adjusted the blanket around his son, making sure he was cozy and comfortable.
He sat quietly for a moment, watching Leo sleep. Building the fort and telling the story had been the best part of his day. It was a special night, a perfect night, for a father and son.