Ethan, a small boy with tousled hair and wide eyes, clutches his favorite stuffed bear as he lies in bed. The room is filled with the comforting scent of lavender, meant to ease his mind. "Dad, can you stay with me until I fall asleep?"
Dad, a tall figure with a kind smile, sits on the edge of the bed, his voice gentle. "Of course, buddy. I'll be right here."
Ethan fidgets, pulling his blanket closer. "What if you leave and I wake up alone?" he whispers, his voice tinged with worry.
Dad reaches out, gently brushing Ethan's hair from his forehead. "I'm always nearby, even if you can't see me. Just like the stars are always in the sky, even when clouds cover them," he reassures.
"Once upon a time, there was a brave little knight who was afraid of the dark," Dad starts, his words painting pictures of a faraway kingdom where courage was found in the most unexpected places.
Ethan listens intently, his imagination transforming the shadows into friendly creatures and the darkness into a magical realm.
"And the knight realized that the dark was just a canvas for his dreams, a place where he could be anything he wanted," Dad concludes, his eyes meeting Ethan's with a knowing smile.
Ethan nods, a small smile forming on his lips. "I think I understand now, Dad," he says softly.
Ethan yawns, his eyelids growing heavy. "You can go now, Dad. I think I can do it," he murmurs, his voice sleepy but confident.
Dad smiles, leaning down to kiss Ethan's forehead. "Goodnight, brave knight," he whispers, quietly leaving the room.
Dad stands there, a sense of pride swelling in his chest. "Sweet dreams, my son," he says softly to himself, before walking away, knowing Ethan's newfound courage will light the way.
