:: Andrew ::
"Nica?"
My daughter climbed out of the truck and I was galvanized by her appearance. When she'd left, she'd been all poise and promise and now, she was disappointment and depression. Her sunken eyes and shy eyes told me a story whose details I was sure would break my heart. I couldn't do anything except open my arms to her and we just embraced for several minutes, both of us sobbing. I pushed her back and gazed into her face, wiping away the tear streaks.
"I'm sorry, Daddy. You were right. I didn't know anything. I'm so sorry!"
"Sshh! We'll talk about that later, Nica. Now, are you here to stay?" Her bottom lip started trembling again and I just hugged her to me, upset to see the way her tears came so easily. "All right. Why don't we do this? I'll get your bags and you go upstairs and take a long, hot shower. I'll make us some breakfast. Would you like that?"
She shook her head against my chest and I reluctantly let her go, giving her a gentle push toward the door. I watched as she moved slowly, stumbling over the broken bottom step and disappeared inside and I turned to the truck, balancing the gun against the side panel. I was very surprised to find only one small suitcase and a purse. My curiosity got the best of me and I found myself sitting in the front seat, poking through her things.