Chapter 183

Seeing my father like this brings back a lot of painful memories from those first few weeks after my mother's death. I'm unable to think more about it though because he quickly reacts to the sound of my voice turning towards me. I can see his eyes light up when he sees me and as they trail over my simple black dress, a sad smile slowly spreads across his lips. His reaction sends a surge of relief through me and I smile. It's good to see evidence that this loss is different than when my mother died. "Hey, kiddo," he responds, using his regular term of endearment, as he reaches a hand out for me.