Axel's Daisy

34 • Destiny

   I could have sworn the mailbox wasn't there.

  As I surveyed the damage I had done to the mailbox, which was a few miles away, I was certain it hadn't been there before. I wasn't even sure if what I had done—practically throwing the neighbor's mailbox onto the curb—was a crime.

  Jade's car had chipped paint on the side because her neighbors had painted the wooden mailbox red. That's why Jade and Axel had rushed to find me. I stepped out of the car, regret etched on my face, but Jade was more concerned about me than the car. She inspected me closely, her hands cupping my cheeks.

  "You got us worried sick," she said, breathless.

  "I'm fine. I swear the mailbox wasn't there when I drove your car," I insisted.

  She rolled her eyes. "It was light red. How did you not see it, dear bestie?" she asked sarcastically.

  Axel chuckled behind Jade, amusement clear in his eyes as he assessed the situation.

  "Hey, it's not funny," I whined.

  He zipped his mouth but couldn't contain his laughter, which bubbled up despite his attempts to stifle it.

  Jade hadn't even had time to change out of her sleepwear, and we all looked ridiculous huddled together. I could see why we appeared funny to him.

  "I'll drop you off," Axel said, taking my hand in his. I gave Jade an apologetic smile, and she responded with a wink and a playful grunt.

  I chuckled, and Axel raised a quizzical eyebrow at me. I shrugged sheepishly. We got into his car while Jade shouted into her phone, arranging for the recovery shop.

•••

  Axel's curiosity made me feel uneasy. I didn't want to hide anything from him, but it wasn't my story to tell. What if my dad wasn't comfortable with him being around?

  "I'll see you later, Golden," I said, pecking Axel on the cheek. "Dad is waiting for me."

  "Sure, take care, Daisy."

  As expected, Dad emerged with his jacket and blue cap on. He scanned the area until his eyes landed on us, waving enthusiastically. I got out of the car to hug him as he approached.

  "Oh, Axel, are you coming too?" Dad asked.

   "I was just heading back to Brady's. How are you doing, sir?" Axel asked awkwardly after closing the car door.

  "Call me John. I'm doing great," Dad said, wrapping an arm around me. Axel looked unsure of what to do as Dad looked down at me and then at him.

  "Are you coming with us to the therapy session?" Dad asked. I widened my eyes in surprise and glanced at him. Axel let out a nervous chuckle, hiding his hands behind his back.

  Dad was always spontaneous like this. He didn't seem to mind anyone knowing about his therapy sessions. He was carefree and just amazing.

  "No, it's fine, John. We'll catch up another time—"

  "Nonsense, let's go, buddies." He ushered us into his car. Axel, not wanting to get on Dad's bad side, complied.

  Dad drove us to the therapy center, which was a bit far. Axel and I sat in the back of the car, and he sneaked a kiss when Dad wasn't looking. I had to stifle a giggle, feeling like a hormonal teenager.

  Axel opened his phone and typed a note before showing it to me.

Should I know what this is about?

  I shook my head, causing his shoulders to slump. I rolled my eyes at his dramatics.

  "So, Axel, do you live with your family?" Dad asked, breaking the silence. His body turned rigid at the question, as if he didn't want to answer.

  "Yes, Dad. He doesn't have siblings, just like me," I explained.

  "Well, we wanted to give you a sibling, but we—"

  "Dad," I choked out, "I don't want to know the rest." I grimaced as he chuckled at my reaction. Axel gave me a relieved smile.

  I let my fingers rest between his, and he kissed the back of my hand. My dad noticed through the rearview mirror and winked. I must have looked like a dork with my gooey grin.

   The therapy center's exterior was modern yet inviting, with warm, earthy tones blending harmoniously with the landscape. As we entered through the glass doors, natural light flooded the spacious reception area, which was adorned with soothing artwork and green plants that brought a touch of nature indoors.

   The reception desk, manned by friendly staff, was accompanied by a tasteful arrangement of wellness magazines and informational brochures. Soft instrumental music played gently in the background, creating a serene atmosphere. Nearby, a cozy seating area invited clients to relax before their sessions, with plush armchairs and a selection of herbal teas for comfort.

  Moving deeper into the center, we found private counseling rooms designed for confidentiality and tranquility. Each room was softly lit, with comfortable seating for both therapist and client. A calming color palette of soft blues and neutrals adorned the walls, complemented by subtle décor that promoted relaxation and introspection.

   Dad informed the friendly receptionist about his appointment with the therapist, and they led us to one of the rooms. There, a man stood with his back to us, dressed in light brown pants and a dark green sweater.

   "Welcome, John and family. Please have a seat," he said, turning around with a welcoming smile. He adjusted his glasses as we all took our seats. "So, your trauma has resurfaced. The records indicate you've been having recurring dreams," he said professionally while reading from his file.

  "Yes, but they're getting worse," Dad confided as the receptionist closed the door.

  I hadn't realized Dad was struggling so badly.

  I could tell Axel wasn't comfortable intruding on our father-daughter space, but I squeezed his hand to let him know it was okay, and he smiled in return.

  "It's not helping with your cancer, too."