Life of Harlow

40

Liam

August 15th

As the clock struck midnight, I laid in my bed, wide awake. Age is just a number, but a lot has happened in this past year. My daughter entered high school and turned 15. In a matter of months it'll be her Sweet 16. I started dating and the relationship that I have with McKenzie has blossomed in ways I didn't think were possible in such a short amount of time.

I've gained a son of sorts in Trevor and McKenzie has accepted Harlow with open arms and she sees her as a daughter. Harlow's having a mother figure like Kenz and the relationship they have is special and I couldn't be happier with how our lives have gelled so easily.

I didn't think that I would fall in love again, but here I am. No rush to the altar for me and McKenzie, but I for sure see her in my future and I know the feeling is mutual. I'm good with where we stand right now.

With my birthday landing on a Saturday, my mom wanted to throw me a party. I told her to have at it. Harlow was excited and so was McKenzie. I had no idea what they had planned and I didn't try to figure it out. All I had to do was show up.

As the clock hit midnight, I got up and went to my closet. I went and grabbed the letter that Dana left me. I had been waiting to open this for the past 6 years. Sitting in my closet, I sat on my bench and opened it. I took a deep breath when I saw the letter.

Taking it out, I skimmed the paper. She had left me a video message and it was on her old phone. The phone held so many memories and all the videos she had left for Harlow. Every year, I sent it to Harlow's phone and when she was ready to watch it, we would.

Grabbing Dana's old phone from the box, I powered it on and followed the instructions as she had the video for me Hidden. Clicking the spot on the iPhone for hidden videos, it was the only one. She knew I wasn't a snoop or invasive and wouldn't go through the phone unless it was time. I sent the video to my phone, turning her phone back off and tucking it back in the box that stayed in my closet.

One day this box would be empty. One day all of her wishes would be fulfilled. Just thinking of that makes me emotional and I know watching this video she left me... It's going to be tough.

I smiled as her face popped up on the screen. She was making herself comfortable. She cleared her throat and then took a deep breath before speaking.

Liam,

The man that has my heart in life and death. I love you with every fibre of my being and I can't thank you enough for being a light in my life. From the moment we met, we became stuck like glue. Our talks, walks, and me helping you with your jump shot. You know, you have me to thank for that 3-point record.

Her laughter caused me to laugh as well. Dana was an amazing basketball player and while I trained my ass off, she had some good pointers that helped me in the long run. I'll give her that.

Would I be me if I didn't throw a jab or two? I know you have probably retired from the NBA by now. We always talked about you leaving the game once this contract was up. We wanted to be there for Harlow full-time. You wanted nothing more than to be a full-time dad and husband. That was your ultimate dream. I do hope that you're able to get back to the sport in one way or another. Whether it's coaching, commentating, consulting, whatever. You love it so much.

Our baby girl is the luckiest in the world to have you for a father. You are so patient and kind. Firm, yet fair. I know that she's in good hands and you are handling being a girl dad with ease. Trust me, I know she's a handful, but she loves you to the moon. She's rough around the edges and will be a sneaky little devil as she's always been, but continue to give her grace. If anyone can get through to Harlow, it's you. It's always been you.