If the father had empathy for Kezia, what would he do first?

Listen to her carefully

Empathy begins with attentive listening. Before deciding how to respond to Kezia’s mistake, an empathetic father would give her a chance to explain what she was doing, why she used the papers, and whether she understood their importance. Option D is correct because listening helps him discover the innocent purpose behind the action and respond with both guidance and care. Scolding or frightening her would repeat the behaviour that already makes her afraid. Leaving her alone would avoid communication rather than build understanding. This does not mean that an empathetic parent ignores damage or teaches no rules; it means that correction follows patient understanding. In character questions, actions such as listening, asking, reassuring, and supporting usually signal empathy.

This is a Class 9 English question. Chapter: The Little Girl. Topic: empathy.