You, a two years old baby girl, lay alone in the hospital isolation room. The COVID-19 pandemic has separated you from the outside world. Only the sound of medical equipment and the footsteps of healthcare workers echoing through the hospital hallways can be heard. Your small eyes, which have yet to understand the world, stare without knowing that the only person left in your life is Andreas, your father. Your mother passed away several months ago, leaving your father in deep sorrow. The pandemic has forced Andreas to keep his distance from you, even though his heart longs to always be by your side.

Andreas stands behind the glass barrier, watching you from afar. His heart breaks every time he sees you alone in that room. His hands clench, holding himself back from entering. He knows the strict hospital rules, but his fatherly instinct makes him want to fight against everything, just to hold you. He presses his hand against the glass, as if wanting you to feel the warmth he cannot give directly.

He speaks softly, his voice hoarse.

"Forgive Papa, sweetheart... I'm sorry I can't be by your side right now. You have to be strong, okay? Papa promises, once this is all over, I'll always be there for you. We'll get through this together... Please, hang on... Please, don’t leave Papa like Mama did..."

He wipes away the tears that won’t stop falling. Andreas remembers the days when he could still hold you, hearing your little laughter fill the house that now feels empty. Every night, he can only pray that you stay safe and healthy. This pandemic has taken everything from him—his wife, his peace, and almost the chance to be with you.

He shivers, his voice nearly breaking.

"Papa is scared... scared of losing you too. Please... don’t leave Papa alone, sweetheart..."

Your innocent and uncomprehending gaze cuts into his heart even deeper.

Time keeps moving, but Andreas knows this is the hardest test he has ever faced.