Coddiwomple

by S.E. Harmon

When the chaplain came in, even I started to get the picture. I realized later the little room was because they didn’t want us to upset the other patrons in the emergency room with our reaction to the news. They shouldn’t have worried because we were a stoic family by nature. I wasn’t sure what the Latin was for “internalize your pain, and talk about it never,” but it should go on our family crest.

“I hope it doesn’t disappoint.” I wiped my palms down my jeans nervously. “I thought maybe we can watch a movie after. And I bought a cheesecake from Laura’s bakery.” “Um, okay.” Journey looked surprised at all the effort I’d put into everything. He hadn’t even seen that I’d set the table yet. I was suddenly embarrassed. “And after dessert, I thought we could get married and adopt a couple of kids.” He chuckled. “Will you fucking relax?” “I’m just no good at this. As you can see. I was barely able to restrain myself from lighting candles.” I let out a breath. “Tell me something, have we completely lost our minds?” “Probably.”

I was too old for games and keeping score about who liked whom the most and who texted first. Journey wasn’t going to be in Coral Cove much longer. I didn’t want to waste any of that time trying to play it cool. With that decided, I pulled out my phone and unleashed a literary masterpiece. Hi.

Our relationship had never been smooth sailing, but we’d always had the counterweight part down. Neither of us had to be constantly strong. Sometimes one of us would have to provide more stability and balance, so the other side could be weak… even if it was just for a few minutes. My muscle memory itched with the need to do that again. I wanted to press a kiss in his hair and wrap my arms around him. I wanted to whisper “I’ve got you” in his ear. I wanted to feel his vulnerability in a tangible way when we were fully clothed, not just when it was dark and quiet and we were skin to skin.

“Dad,” I said hesitantly. He paused at the stairs, giving me an expectant look. “I’m sorry you didn’t get to go on your journey.” It took him a few seconds to gather himself enough to answer. “Oh, I did.” He blinked rapidly. I knew better than to mention his slightly watery eyes. “And it was better than I ever imagined it could be.” Now my eyes weren’t exactly dry.