Puzzles and Pieces ✔

Epilogue

Epilogue

Empty nest syndrome was something that weighed on my chest the whole morning and Kyle hadn't even left yet.

I looked around Kyle's Room, taking in how clean it looked. It was emptier as well.

I took time to appreciate the painting hanging in his room as well. It was the puzzle that Caleb had painted in its entirety. I looked at it appreciating the markings of paint strokes and the detail that went into it. Just a few years ago I couldn't look at it without feeling sad but all I could feel at this was just... peace.

"Dad, I'm leaving now."

"Hold on a minute! I want to take a picture of you before you leave!"

I quickly exited out of his room and pulled out my phone to Kyle's displeasure.

"Do you have to take a picture?"

"Of course! It's a big day. It'll only take a few seconds."

He sighed before posing at the door and the sound of a camera snap went off.

"What's the hold-up?" Mr.Matthews peeked into the apartment. He was waiting outside for Kyle so they could drive to Kyle's university together.

"Dad just wanted to take my picture. We're going now." Kyle waved a hand dismissively before shrugging on his backpack.

"Are you sure you'll be alright with me not coming?"

"Yeah, it's fine. Grandpa should be enough. Anyways, I'm the one driving." He tapped his chest with his hand. Probably to reassure me that he was mature and responsible.

I shook my head. "Alright, I can't help but worry. It's such a big step in your life."

"Don't worry, I'll be okay."

"Also, if you ever need anything don't be afraid to call home."

"I will, I will." He rolled his eyes and I gave him a stern look.

"I mean it. You tend to keep to yourself when you're having issues. If anything happens, no matter how small, come to me. I don't care if you've distressed because you saw a spider in your room or you're overwhelmed by your studies, know that you can rely on me. Okay?"

"Okay."

"Now give your old man a hug before you leave."

Kyle hugged me and I held onto him for a few seconds, cherishing the moment. Mr. Matthews gave me a smug smile and left to wait outside again.

"My little boy is being a man," I murmured.

"I am a man." I could hear the pout in that sentence.

"You'll always be my baby boy. Now go on. Grandpa seemed to have left outside."

Kyle gave me a final wave before closing the door behind him.

I was left by myself in silence and for the first time, I realize I had time to myself.

I had no idea what I should do with my time either.

I wandered back into Kyle's Room and found myself staring at the puzzle again.

A small memory resurfaced as I remembered the deal that I had made with Caleb all those years ago. Going to my favourite diner as a consolation prize...

It's been many years since I last visited that place. I wonder if it was still open. I haven't eaten lunch as well so it wouldn't hurt to eat out once in a while.

I grabbed my coat and wallet before heading out of the apartment complex. The walk didn't take very much time and I was able to appreciate the scenery and really take my time to relax. After all these years of looking over Kyle and stressing about him, I never got to have a break like now.

Surprisingly, the diner was still open. I entered it to be met with the mingling aromas of baked and fried goods. It smelt even better than what I had remembered. I took a seat near the spot that I usually sat in, the spot next to the window so I could people watch as I ate. It had been so long since I came there alone as well.

I picked up a menu and looked through the contents of it. They seemed to have changed the menu over the years.

"I'm sorry sir, we have a full house so we don't have any seats available." The meek voice of a waitress said and I looked up to see she was talking to an older gentleman.

He was a handsome man with a sepia complexion. I could tell by his wrinkles that he must've had a long day.

I raised my arm to gain their attention and spoke up. "He can sit with me, I don't mind."

"Are you okay with that?"The waitress asked the man and he nodded.

He strode to the table and took the seat across from me. I noticed he was actually pretty tall when he got close.

"Thank you for letting me join you. I didn't think it would be so packed today." The man smiled at me and I found myself smiling back.

"It's no problem. Wouldn't want to see a hungry mouth be turned away from good food." I cleared my throat awkwardly. "The name's Josh. What's your name?"

"Caleb."

I wasn't sure if it was fate that day or if the universe was apologizing, but at this point, I was just going to enjoy what I had.