Disclaimer: I do not own 'The Zeta Project'. I do not own any of its characters. It's just a fanfiic.

A/N As English isn't my native language, I want to thank Aldebaran8423 for her editing help on this drabble.

I like Aldebaran8423's idea we, all TZP fans, to celebrate Zee's Independence Day - August 5th, so I'm posting this short story for Zee's Independent Day!

The Simple Things

by Iglika

From what the little girl could see, I was her Dad, helping her learn to ride a bicycle.

The question escaped my lips. "Do you trust me?"

"Of course, Daddy!" her resonant voice answered me immediately.

I let go of her bike and she shouted happily, "I'm doing it! Daddy, look!"

I remained in place, following her with my gaze. My answer: "I'm looking" had to be encouraging, but I knew it sounded sad.

Terribly sad.

Hopelessly sad.

Luckily the girl was too young and too occupied with the bike to notice. And her mother wasn't here...

Suddenly I sensed how from behind me, two warm hands gently touched my shoulders.

I didn't voice my surprise, but I knew my expression had betrayed how startled I was.

No one had touched me like this before. No one had trusted me.

No one had shown me love with even such a small, ordinary gesture.

I said nothing, but I turned to Mrs. Dolan, trying a smile.

Family.

Devotion.

Trust.

Love.

The most simple things.

The most important things.

And pain...

Now I knew they existed.

The real meaning of living beings had touched me.

And I already craved them for myself...

The end

A/N I wouldn't have internet access for three weeks. But please, please review!

I appreciate your comments, they are so important to me! I will answer you when I'll be back.