father and daughter

May 2030 - Ricky Cormier is 35, Sandy Fairchild is 45, Ellie Fairchild is 6.

Ricky is surprised to get a call from Sandy one morning. They haven't talked in more than six years.

"It's been a long time," she begins. "We agreed that you wouldn't be involved in Ellie's life, but she's started to ask about you. She really wants to meet you."

Sandy and Ellie come over for a visit one Sunday morning.

"Sandy, you look great," he says, kissing her on the cheek.

"You haven't changed a bit, Ricky," Sandy says, shrugging him off. "This is Ellie."

"Hi, Ellie. Nice to meet you."

She shakes his hand solemnly. "Hi Ricky."

"Your mom says you're quite the little artist," he says as she admires his paintings.

She nods happily. "I love to paint."

Ricky tries his best, but being around a kid is new for him. She likes talking to him about art, but when he tries to tickle her she pulls away.

"Are you hungry? I could make your a snack," he offers.

"Okay I guess."

But she's a little skeptical of the gourmet cheese platter he puts together. He may be a professional chef, but he has no idea what kids like to eat.

"You two seem to be getting along pretty well," Sandy observes.

He's not so sure, but maybe she thought things would be a lot worse.

"It's time to go, sweetie," Sandy says.

"Okay." She shakes his hand again, so serious. "Bye Ricky."

"Bye Ellie. It was nice meeting you. I'll see you soon."

She smiles. "Okay."