Last Chance

Chapter 5

Charlie woke up in his bed. He didn't really remember getting back in bed. He also noticed that his glasses weren't on his face. He felt something shift next to him. For a split second, he thought Mariana had somehow crawled in to bed with him. But he looked down and saw Juanaflippa instead, snuggled up against him. He gently unlatched himself from her, trying not to wake her up. He sat up and rubbed his face. He got off bed and opened the door. He looked down the hall to his left and saw that the guest room door was open. He didn't bother looking in. He walked to the kitchen and began preparing breakfast. Though as he worked, he took notice that one picture was missing. The place where it usually sat was now empty. It was a photo of Juanaflippa in a bright yellow dress. Charlie knew it was Mariana's favorite.

Juanaflippa walked into the kitchen. She hopped up on a stool. Charlie flashed her a quick smile. He hummed a song. He was in a slightly better mood than last night and decided to take advantage of it. He had finished making breakfast and placed a plate in front of Juanaflippa.

"How'd you sleep, Flippa?" He asked with a smile.

Juanaflippa didn't respond right away. She picked at her food before saying, "Dad, are you okay?"

Charlie tilted his head, "Why do you ask?"

She stared at him. Juanaflippa was always such a smart girl, perhaps too smart for her own good.

"Papa explained a little last night."

Charlie leaned on the counter. "Did he now."

She nodded her head. "He said that he loved me very much, and not to be scared. He said he'll be back tomorrow to talk more. He also said that parents aren't always happy, but that it's not my fault."

There was silence for a moment. Charlie reached over the counter and ruffled her hair. He gave her a soft smile and said, "What would you like to do today?"

Juanaflippa thought for a moment. She tapped her head. "Can you braid my hair?"