Mom.” Jenna snuggled into her mother’s arms, her voice sweet and coaxing. Is Dad super busy again?
Sherilyn could only nod. Yes, he is.
So can I call him?
Sherilyn hesitated for a moment, then picked up her phone. Let’s give it a try. If Dad isn’t busy right now, he’ll answer.
Yay! Jenna’s eyes sparkled with excitement. Quick, Mom, dial his number!
Alright.
Sherilyn unlocked her phone and called Gilbert.
The line rang once, twice-just as the third ring started, someone picked up. A familiar male voice came through.
Hello?
Daddy!
Jenna didn’t need any prompting. She clasped the phone with both hands,
grinning from ear to ear. It’s me, Jenna!
Jenna. Gilbert’s tone instantly softened.
Daddy, I miss you. I haven’t seen you in days, you know.” Jenna’s little voice was plaintive, the tiniest hint of a pout coming through.
That’s my fault. I’m so sorry, Jenna… Gilbert apologized at once. Tonight, I promise I’ll come home and spend the whole evening with you, okay?
Really? Yay! Jenna’s face lit up. You have to keep your promise! I’ll wait for you at home!
I will. I promise.
Mom says you’re really busy! Go back to work now, Daddy. Bye-bye!
Alright. Bye, Jenna.
Mom. Jenna handed the phone back to Sherilyn. I’m done! Now you talk to Daddy!
With that, she hopped off the couch and scampered off to her playroom.
Sherilyn stood there, momentarily caught off guard. She glanced down-the call was still connected, the screen still glowing.
He was waiting for her?
She hesitated, then pressed the phone to her ear. She opened her mouth, but no words came out.
Sherilyn? Gilbert spoke first, quietly.
… Yeah, she replied without thinking.
I’ll be home tonight, he said softly.
Alright.
A brief, awkward silence fell between them.
I should get back to work. I’ll hang up now?
Okay.
Two seconds later, the call disconnected.
Sherilyn lowered the phone, staring at the now-dark screen. She let out a long, silent sigh.
Six o’clock. The sky was still bright.
Gilbert came home.
Daddy! Jenna raced to the front door the moment she heard it open. Gilbert scooped her up with one arm, holding her steady.
Daddy, I missed you so, so much! Jenna pressed her cheek to his shoulder, her voice muffled and affectionate.
Did you? Gilbert hugged her close, letting his rough stubble brush against her soft cheek. Daddy missed you, too!
Jenna burst out laughing. Daddy! That tickles!
Is it fun? Gilbert grinned, teasing her a little more.
Jenna giggled uncontrollably. Daddy, you didn’t shave! That’s not clean! If Mom finds out, she’ll be mad!
Father and daughter laughed together, wrapped up in their own little world. A few steps away, Sherilyn watched them quietly.
It had only been a few days, but seeing Gilbert again felt strangely unreal.
He looked thinner, his hair messy and untended, bangs falling across his
forehead; his stubble was more pronounced than usual. He always had a tendency to grow a bit of a beard, and now the blue-black shadow covered his jaw and cheeks.
Yet, with his sharp features, he didn’t look slovenly just a little weary, a little world-worn.
Sherilyn lowered her gaze and smiled gently. Take Jenna to wash her hands. Dinner will be ready soon.
Gilbert nodded. Okay.
He glanced after Sherilyn as she headed for the kitchen, then carried Jenna off to wash up.
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