Wednesday, October 9, 2019

Sunday

I know better than to ignore the call.  After all the lost phones I know a strange number could be him.  I flip my phone over and keep brushing my teeth.  After the fourth call I know I have to answer. 

He's frantic because he can't remember where he's parked his car.  Again.  I reassure him that I'll come help.  I'm sick and need to sleep, but I know there's no other choice. Guilt washes over me when I think about how I tried to avoid his call.  

I pull up to the store and cross my fingers that he's remembered to wait where I asked him to. When I see he isn't there I scold myself for not changing out of my pajamas.    

After an excruciating 45 minutes I finally find him sitting in his car. I tap on the glass and motion for him to roll the window down.  He can't figure out how so I walk around to the passenger side and get in.  The tears, apologies, and excuses come spilling out.  I interrupt him to ask him to come live with me. We've been here before so his refusal isn't a surprise.  

I open the door to leave and he reaches for my arm. 

"Can I drive you to your car? I don't like you walking alone in the dark." 

And just like that I see him.  My Daddy.  Forever my protector.