He hangs his head covered in yogurt and seeing the kitchen mess he would have to clean.  Patience had to be the big thing, "So sweetheart, besides chocolate and candy; what do you want for breakfast?"  He wanted to treat her well and hoped that there would be a reasonable decision made.  He didn't bother crossing his fingers because inside he knew it was futile.  He smiled at little Gracie and patted her on the head.