The Next Day
I woke up sometime before the sun rose and walked to the kitchen. Even though I had a plan, my mind didn’t stop running. I’d never been this nervous before, and wondered why it suddenly sprang on me.
I placed my elbows on the table and ran my fingers through my hair. I wanted to cry, but I never felt strong when I did. Dad always told me that men hold them in and do what they must do.
I heard Dad tossing in his chair and went to check on him. He smiled and held a hand out to me. I sat beside him and felt his forehead.
“No temperature today, Papi.” I smiled.
“Finally…” He groaned weakly.
“Can I get you anything?” I asked him.
“Some coffee and my rosary.” He pointed to the table beside the television.
I handed it to him before returning to the kitchen to make the coffee. I closed my eyes as it brewed, hoping a miracle would happen today.
I poured it into the cup and walked to him. He had his eyes closed as he recited the “Hail Mary” and “The Lord's Prayer.” I looked at him in awe. No matter how sick he was, he always found the strength to pray.
He finished and opened his eyes. I held the cup to him, and he smiled as he took it. After a few sips, he leaned back and looked as peaceful as I had seen him in a long time.
“Anything else you need, Papi?”
He shook his head. “No, my son, I am okay. You should go get ready for the day.”
I patted his hand and made my way to the shower. I found myself reciting the Nicene Creed. I didn’t know if I believed in God, but simple prayers always brought a small comfort.
I put on my khaki pants and a red shirt. I placed the cross necklace Mom got for me around my neck and kissed it for good luck.
I stared at my reflection momentarily before going back to my room. I looked out the window as the sun crept up, basking in the beauty of the morning sky.
I checked my watch. “Only three hours until I see you, Gunner.”