Adopting Lorna didn't count; that had been pure free-range parenting. The feeling was completely different when there was a blood tie. Sensing the resonance between their bloodlines, Daisy felt a wave of comfort despite her heavy heart.
She had offspring of her own now. Even if she died tomorrow, the fruits of her years of struggle would live on through the power of blood. Her life would not have been for nothing.
Of course, it was still better not to die if possible.
"Why did you bring that thing?" Rachel questioned the shoulder bag Daisy had casually picked up on the way out.
To little Rachel, what use was a bag like that? As a weapon? It didn't seem to have much attacking power, not even as useful as a rock on the ground. For defense? It didn't look like it. To carry things? It was too small!
"...It's... just a habit, I guess?" Daisy had always cast herself in the role of a father. Before going out, she had deliberately changed into fairly androgynous clothes. Picking up the shoulder bag had been entirely instinctive, though she had never had the habit of stuffing a bag full of miscellaneous items.
Rachel's question truly left her at a loss for how to explain it. What father discussed this sort of thing with his daughter? Fortunately, she knew how to change the subject.
"Mine is nothing. Jean's habits are the really scary ones. Every time she goes out, she spends at least two hours putting on makeup. Not a single accessory can be left out—hair ornaments, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, watches, shoulder bags..."
Daisy told her all about the child's mother, and Rachel gasped again and again as she listened. Secretly, she felt that being with her real father was much more freeing.