You stepped toward the front door to go back inside. All the courage I could muster allowed me to say, “Take care of yourself, you hear?” At first, you didn’t respond. I wasn’t sure you’d heard me. Then, when I looked up, you looked down with those big, beautiful, sad brown eyes and huffed, “I will, Dad.” I should’ve stood and hugged you. Should’ve insisted on taking you to the bus station. Or at least riding along with you and your friend. Should’ve put some extra money in your pocket. Should’ve asked for a contact number. Instead, I sulked and went home.
