Chapter 29
(Kevin's point-of-view)
"I wish he could see me now," I said tracing the lettering on my father's tombstone.
Kristin placed her slenders fingers on top of mine. "You know he can see you."
"Yeah, I just wish I could see him, too," I replied gripping her hand.
She faced me. "You did a lot for yourself coming here. I'm proud of you."
"Thank you for helping me through it."
She smiled. "You're welcome. I'll always help you when I can."
I hugged her. "This has been such an odd time in my life. Everyone's life really."
"I understand, but things are looking up."
I was thrilled things were looking up. The way they had been going I was worried what would happened if they had gone in the other direction. "Are you flying out to Florida with me tomorrow afternoon?"
Kristin frowned. "No, I'm sorry, but I have to fly out to New York for a concert on Cher's tour."
"That's all right. I only wish I could watch the most enchanting dancer on the stage."
She laughed. "Enchanting? Not those costumes!"
"What? You don't like wearing a red wig like Bozo the Clown?" I chuckled tickling her small belly.
"No, I don't. I'm quite comfortable being blonde, thank you."
I ran my hands through her hair. "Really? Because your roots seem to be comfortable being brown."
She playfully punched me in the stomach. "Watch it, Richardson!"
I lifted my hands in defense. "I apologize Miss Bozo."
"You goofball."
I stood pulling her to her feet. "I'll miss you."
She gave me a small kiss. "I'll miss you, too. But I'm happy you'll be returning to the group happier than I've seen you in months."
"I feel like I have some closure," I explained returning to my car. "And I really think my dad is proud of me."
"Naturally, he was you're biggest cheerleader from what your mother tells me."
"He was." I opened her car door. "You want to grab a bite to eat?"
"Sure, but you park the car and I'll go inside. I don't really feel like being shoved around by little girls half my size."
I shut the door behind me. "What? You mean, you don't like being a human pin-ball machine?"
"It's right up there with the Bozo wig," she snorted. "Where are you staying in Tampa?"
"Brian and I are getting a hotel room together."
"And the others?"
"AJ and Howie will room together, and Nick will stay with his family."
"Sounds good. How is AJ doing?"
"Better. Howie said he still isn't feeling wonderful but he's getting there."
"And Howie?"
I sighed. "Dealing the best he can." I paused. "But enough of this sad stuff. Let's enjoy our last few hours together, deal?"
She gave me a high-five. "Deal!"
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