Chapter Eight - Chapter Seven
CHAPTER EIGHT
Chapter Seven
“MORNING, DAD,” I greeted, sliding into my usual spot at the kitchen table. The comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafted up from the steaming cup Dad had set out for me. It was a simple gesture, but it never failed to make me smile.
“Morning, Ellie,” I added, reaching out to touch her tiny nose. She giggled from her highchair, a sight that always warmed my heart as she dug into her cereal.
“If you don’t mind, I’d like to take Ellie with me today,” Dad said, rolling his wheelchair to the table to talk while I ate. “I thought I’d take her to the park while I catch up with Tom.”
Tom was one of Dad’s old veteran buddies. They met a few times a week, and it did wonders for Dad’s spirits. This handicapped apartment was pricier, but its location was perfect. Dad could wheel himself to McDonald’s for coffee, enjoy the nearby park, and stay connected with the world he loved. It gave him a sense of independence that was priceless.
“That’s a great idea, Dad. Ellie will love it,” I replied, smiling. I usually took Ellie to the studio with me, cherishing every moment we spent together. Janice, the studio owner, was a kind woman who understood my need to have Ellie close. Besides, Ellie was a sweetheart, always playing quietly or watching without causing any trouble.
“What time do you go in tonight?” Dad asked, running a hand through his blond hair. He was still a handsome man in his early fifties, despite the scars that told stories of his past. It saddened me that no woman had looked past them to see the incredible man he was.
“Six,” I said, my heart fluttering at the thought of seeing Jarrod again. His presence had transformed my feelings about going to work. “I’ll be done at the studio by two, so we can have dinner together before I leave.”
“That’s good, honey,” he said, taking a sip of his coffee. “I hate that you have to work so much. I wish I could do more.”
“You do plenty, Dad. Taking care of Ellie and everything around here means the world to me,” I said, squeezing his hand. He had sacrificed so much for me growing up, ensuring I had dance lessons, cheerleading uniforms, everything I needed. It wasn’t until years later that I realized how expensive it all had been. Despite losing his legs in combat, the military support was minimal, and we had to fight for every bit of assistance he got. It was heartbreaking how veterans were forgotten. “I love what I do. It’s not a hardship.”
“You’re a good daughter, Madeline,” he said, kissing my cheek. Ellie started chattering, demanding our attention with her sweet, babbling voice.
For over a year, I had juggled multiple jobs, barely making ends meet and feeling constantly exhausted. Then, one day at the studio, a girl mentioned she made thousands dancing at a gentleman’s club. Initially, I doubted I could do it, but once I started, I found it easy to lose myself in the dance. I wasn’t ashamed of my body, and soon enough, I was earning more than I ever could with those other jobs, giving me precious time with Dad and Ellie.
“Let me get Ellie cleaned up and ready,” I said, standing and lifting her from the highchair. “You finish your breakfast.”
As I got Ellie ready, my thoughts drifted to Jarrod. Tonight, I’d be dancing, knowing he was watching. The anticipation made my heart race. Before, I hadn’t known he was there until I was on stage, but tonight was different. The thought of his eyes on me excited me in a way I couldn’t deny.
Oh, what that man did to me.
Dad wheeled himself into the living room, turning on the TV to his favorite morning news show. The familiar drone of the anchors’ voices filled the room, providing a comforting background noise. Ellie, now clean and dressed in her favorite pink outfit, toddled over to him, her face lighting up as he lifted her onto his lap.
“Looks like someone’s ready for an adventure,” Dad said, grinning down at her. Ellie squealed in delight, clapping her hands.
I watched them, my heart swelling with love. Despite the hardships, moments like these made everything worthwhile. Dad’s resilience and Ellie’s innocent joy were my anchors, keeping me grounded every day.
After I cleared the dishes and prepared Ellie’s bag with snacks, toys, and her favorite blanket. Dad was already chatting animatedly with Ellie, pointing out things on the TV screen and making her giggle.
“Alright, you two,” I said, placing the bag over the handle of his chair. “Ready for your day out?”
Dad nodded, maneuvering his wheelchair with practiced ease. “We’ll be just fine. Don’t worry about us.”
“I know you will,” I replied, leaning down to kiss Ellie’s cheek. “Have fun, sweetheart.”
As they left, I took a moment to savor the quiet. The apartment felt empty without Ellie’s chatter and Dad’s steady presence, but it was also a rare moment of peace. I took a deep breath, letting it out slowly. Tonight was going to be different with Jarrod’s presence, and I needed to get my mind in order.
The hours at the studio flew by. Janice was in a good mood, and the students were eager and energetic. By the time I wrapped up the last class, I felt a sense of accomplishment. I changed quickly, eager to get home and spend some time with Dad and Ellie before heading to the club.
When I walked through the door, the smell of Dad’s cooking greeted me. His meals were simple, but they were made with love, and that made all the difference. Ellie was already seated at the table, babbling about her day at the park.
“We had a great time,” Dad said, dishing out plates of spaghetti. “Ellie played with some other kids, and Tom says hello.”
“This smells great,” I replied, sitting down and savoring the simple yet delicious meal. “Thanks for doing this, Dad. I really appreciate it.”
“Anything for my girls,” he said, his eyes warm with affection.
As I finished my meal, my thoughts wandered back to Jarrod. Tonight, I wouldn’t be dancing lost in my own head.
Tonight, I’d be dancing for him.
The thought sent a warmth through my stomach. I couldn’t wait to see the look in his eyes when I stepped onto the stage, and I knew just what to perform for my last show.
“Alright, time to get ready,” I said, standing up and gathering my things. “Wish me luck for an amazing evening.”
“You don’t need luck, honey,” Dad said, giving me a reassuring smile. “You’re already amazing.”
With one last kiss for Ellie and a hug for Dad, I headed out the door, my heart pounding with anticipation and excitement.