Leo sat on his bed, hugging his favorite stuffed bear tightly. He listened as his mom called for him from the kitchen, her voice gentle but a little sad. Today was the day his dad would leave again, and the house felt different—like it was holding its breath. "Mom, do I have to say goodbye?" Mom, her long hair pulled into a ponytail, knelt beside Leo and brushed his hair back. "I know it’s hard, sweetheart, but your dad wants to see you before he goes. He loves you so much,"

Dad bent down to Leo's level, his uniform crisp and boots polished. He smiled, though his eyes looked a little watery. Leo reached out and grabbed his dad’s hand, squeezing it tight. "I have to go away for a while, buddy, but I promise I’ll come back. I’m helping keep everyone safe—that’s my job," "Will you miss me?" "Every single day. But I’m proud of you for being brave while I’m gone,"

Leo stared at the photo, his heart heavy. He missed Dad already, and sometimes it felt like no one else understood. Leo sank into the big armchair, pulling his knees up to his chest. "Why does Dad have to be gone so long?" Mom sat beside him, wrapping an arm around his shoulders. "Your dad is doing something special. He helps people and keeps our country safe. That’s something to be proud of, even if it’s hard. And you’re brave too, just like him,"

Leo drew a picture of him and Dad flying kites together. He held it up to the computer camera during their call, grinning shyly. Dad smiled from far away, his image a little fuzzy, but his voice clear and warm. "That’s the best picture I’ve ever seen, Leo! I keep every drawing you send me. It helps me when I’m missing you," "I miss you too, Dad. But I’m trying to be brave—just like you taught me,"

Leo thought about all the stories Dad had told him—of helping people, working hard with his friends, and always doing the right thing. He felt a little lighter, knowing how important his dad’s job was. Piecing the airplane together, Leo smiled, feeling proud. "I can be strong while Dad is away. He’s my hero, and I can be one too,"

Mom kissed Leo goodnight, whispering softly. "Whenever your heart feels heavy, remember how much your dad loves you. And remember, he’s proud of you every day," Leo closed his eyes, imagining Dad's hug. He knew that even when apart, love made them strong—and that was something worth being proud of, always.