Mind Of a Child

7.

Same day.

Sangwoo's POV.

     Today was the day. Kinry turns six. I had planned nothing good enough I felt. I'm a horrible father. It took me a hot second to realize that I had been crying. The warm tears almost felt as if they could burn my cheek. I checked my clock, I was late. I quickly got up and slipped my clothes for the day on, running my hands through my unwashed hair. I headed to Kinry's room. The light was on. Dangit. I made sure to wipe the tears from my face before opening the door. Kinry smiled up at me. "Sorry, daddy woke up late." I say. "It's ok, daddy," he'd respond. I gave him my usual smile. Lips stretched thin with a slightly blank stare. I wonder if he's noticed.

     I head downstairs after closing his door. I make sure to hide the bloody rag and bucket before calling him down. I had bought him a cake yesterday night, with six candles as well. I lit them as I hear my son hopping down the stairs. I assume my groggy tone rushed him. Frankly, I was ready to get to work, I had no more time. "Make a wish," I'd whisper. I did it every year. I watched blow out the candles with made me break out into a smile. I sat down at the table with him and we both enjoyed the small cake. Of course, I let Kinry eat the majority of it. I knew eating made him sleepy, so I was relived that I could get to work quicker. He finished eating and gave me a hug, "thank you daddy," he giggled. He ran back to his room to play. Now it's time for work.

     I clean up the table and do the dishes. I throw away the plastic silverware and head down to the basement.