Lily sat cross-legged on the floor, her tiny fingers grasping a crayon as she added more stars to her drawing. Her eyes followed her mother, Jessica, who was busy packing her hospital bag. "Mommy, why do you have to work today?" she asked, her voice tinged with curiosity.

"Well, sweetheart, I work to help people feel better when they're sick," Jessica explained, kneeling down to Lily's level. "Just like how you take care of your stuffed animals when they're 'hurt' in your games." Lily nodded slowly, contemplating her mother's words.

"I wish you could stay and play with me all day," Lily said wistfully, her eyes drifting to a picture of her and Jessica at the park. Jessica wrapped an arm around her daughter, pulling her close.

"I love spending time with you, my little star," Jessica whispered, brushing a stray curl from Lily's forehead. "And even when I'm at work, I'm always thinking of you." Lily smiled, feeling the warmth of her mother's love.

"Maybe when I grow up, I can help people too," Lily mused, looking up at Jessica with newfound inspiration. "You can be anything you want, Lily," Jessica replied, her eyes shining with pride.

"I'll be home as soon as I can, and we'll have dinner together, okay?" Jessica promised, kissing Lily's forehead. "Okay, Mommy," Lily replied, waving as her mother stepped out the door, her heart lighter with understanding and love.