IMDD CHAPTER 288 (Patreon)

The sight of her eyebrows furrowing slightly and her lower lip jutting out in a classic pout, made Gage feel immediately guilty. The fact that he had disappointed her and see her upset because of his decision was something he wasn’t prepared for. Damn… now he’d done it… what should he do?

In that moment, Gage also started to feel conflicted. On one hand, he wants to indulge her desires and enjoy the happiness it brings her; on the other, he is acutely aware of the long-term implications of unhealthy eating habits and feels responsible for teaching her about making healthier choices.

Gage never thought that such simple thing as this could actually be quite distressing. He wanted nothing but to keep his little girl happy! But he also couldn’t just let her east just anything, what if she gets sick?

The internal conflict was getting more and more intense as it pits his immediate paternal instincts to please his child against his responsibility as a parent to guide and protect her health.

Quietly, Gage subtly wiped the sweat that appeared on his temple. Damn… now he understands why they said parenting involves making difficult choices! Choices, Gage thought, was definitely much harder than most choices he’d done in his existence. Well… he thought that way because of the fact that this seemingly simple matter was actually making a man like him sweat! He never sweat even when he was dealing with billion dollars projects and such!

Glancing at the little girl again, Gage bit his lower lip when the child was not even facing his way anymore. He couldn’t believe how fast she turned from happy to energetic to upset sad puppy.

Unable to stand it any longer, Gage pulled the car on the side of the road.

“Give me a moment okay, darlin’? I’ll just answer this message.” He said in a very soft voice as he grabbed his phone and started texting someone.

[Can a six-year-old eat French fries? Sorry, I can't disturb my wife. She's busy right now.] He typed and sent it to Calix’s number.

Calix replied after a few seconds. [And you think I'm not busy? You already forget the job you forced me to do?]

[Come on. Just answer.]

[Yes.]

[Are you sure? Isn't that food very unhealthy?]

[Yes. That's right.]

[Gaia want to eat it. And I can’t possibly let her eat something so unhealthy.]

[Then just say ‘no’.]

[How could I even do that!]

[Simply tell her ‘NO’.]

Gage pinched the skin between his brows before he typed his reply. [My princess is so upset right now. What if she hates me for this?]

For several seconds, there was no response.

Just when Gage was about to type again, Calix’s reply came. But the sight of the long ass message made Gage blink. Did that guy just copy pasted something from the internet and sent it to him?

Still, Gage ended up reading it with serious expression on his face.

[How to properly say 'no' to your little child who wants to eat junk foods? Saying "no" to a child, especially concerning something they're keen on, like junk food, requires a blend of firmness, understanding, and positivity. Here's a step-by-step approach to handle such situations effectively:

Be Clear and Firm: Use simple, clear language that leaves no room for misunderstanding. For example…

Offer Explanations Suitable for Their Age: Children are naturally curious and often more receptive when they understand the "why" behind a decision. Explain the reasons for your refusal in a way they can understand…

Empathize with Their Feelings: Acknowledge their disappointment without belittling their feelings.

Provide Alternatives: Offer healthier options that are still appealing.

Use It as a Learning Opportunity: Teach them about healthy eating habits and the importance of making good food choices.

Be Consistent: Consistency is key in parenting.

Encourage Healthy Eating as a Family Activity: Lead by example.

Positive Reinforcement: Praise their good choices and when they accept your decision without too much fuss. This reinforces the behavior you want to see…]

Gage nodded like an old man after speed-reading the whole message.

Turning to Gigi, who was still sulking in her seat, Gage smiled. "Princess, how about we make a deal? You can have some fries but only for today, okay? Because French fries is not healthy and it’s not good for you to eat lots of it. So, let’s pick some fruits or other healthier food next time, okay?"

Gigi, understanding the compromise, nodded eagerly. "Okay, Daddy.”

As her pout finally faded, Gage began to feel extremely relieved. “How about we make pinky promise?”

Gaia excitedly extended her little hand and just like that, the father and daughter’s bright and wholesome atmosphere returned, as if nothing happened.

They later ate their lunch together happily and after that, Gage drove towards the hospital where George was being treated.

It was time for him to finally show up and let his old man know that he was back and alive.

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CHAPTER 289>> 

a/n: thanks for your patience, guys!