Where are you now?

Where is grandpa?

"Mom, I'm going to work be safe, alright?"

"Yes honey, I love you."

"Love you to mom!"

-Caramel kissed her mother goodbye and made her way to the café she held dear to her heart. As she entered, a smile instantly graced her face upon seeing her beloved grandpa, Mr. Hayes.

"Grandpa!" she exclaimed, wrapping her arms around him in a tight embrace.

Chuckling, Mr. Hayes playfully teased, "Haha! Hello, Caramel! Where have you been? I thought you died!"

Caramel giggled, shaking her head. "Grandpa, you haven't seen me in only 8 hours!"

With laughter filling the air, they set about their day's work, running the café that held countless memories for them both.

Amidst the bustling atmosphere, a stranger approached the counter. "Hello! Can I get two caramel frappuccinos and one pumpkin cake?" they asked.

Caramel smiled warmly. "Of course! It's on its way."

Just as she was about to head to the kitchen to prepare the cake, her grandpa called out to her, halting her in her tracks.

"Mel, I have some other important matters to attend to. You'll have to finish this shift on your own," he explained.

Concern filled Caramel's eyes as she replied, "Okay, Grandpa. Don't worry, I can handle it. You can go."

And so, Mr. Hayes left the café, his destination the hospital. Unbeknownst to anyone, he had been battling cancer, a truth he had chosen to keep hidden. Refusing chemotherapy, he wanted to avoid dwelling on thoughts of his illness and mortality.

At the hospital, Mr. Hayes met with the doctors, pleading for help. "Please, there must be something you can do!" he implored, desperation evident in his voice.

Regrettably, the doctors shook their heads. "We're sorry, Mr. Hayes. At this stage, there is no viable treatment option available," they explained.

Defeated but determined to make the most of his remaining time, Mr. Hayes returned home. He settled on the couch, choosing to watch his favorite series, seeking solace in its familiar embrace...