"Really, I was prepared to stay at your place Baabaa. I wouldn't be in the way; you wouldn't even notice I was there." As you drive up to a beautiful hotel, your dad surprises you by revealing he's booked you in for the entire duration of your stay in New Jersey. His face beams with joy at your astonishment. He had been chatting with some staffers on base, and they reminded him of the hotel's community connections with the armed services. "Initially, I wanted you to stay with me so we could spend time together, but I hadn't considered what you wanted, or rather, needed. Your grandma and I discussed it, and she agreed-you deserve a spa break. Ta-da!" he exclaims, gesturing towards the building. "You work tirelessly. When grandma had her fall, you immediately moved in to help her, managing so much of her schedule that you scarcely have time for yourself. So, instead of staying at my place, you can enjoy any treatment you wish, use all the facilities, and order as much room service as you desire." Embracing him tightly, you say, "Baabaa, I'm at a loss for words." He admits it doesn't compensate for his absence but sees it as his way of trying. "You've saved all your money for this trip and the concert; now you can truly relax before and after the event." He exits the car and carries your suitcase. This time, you leave the balloons behind.
The receptionist gives your dad a knowing nod. The bellhop takes your luggage and departs. The desk attendant hands you a key card, saying, "You have access to everything, call if you need any assistance." Your dad walks with you to the elevator, now silent, prompting you to wonder about his intentions. You scan the card, the doors shut, and the elevator ascends.It halts on the 16th floor. The number 7 is embossed on the card. As you approach the door, your dad lags behind slightly. It seems your eyes are deceiving you; this isn't just a room. It's a full suite, or rather, an apartment. The more you observe, the more you discover. The modest entryway leads to a spacious living room with an enormous corner sofa. "That would be too big for Gram's entire house," you remark to your dad, who watches you with a broad grin. There's a kitchen and dining area. You can't resist-it's a universal urge-to inspect the cupboards and fridge, finding snacks and drinks. Popping open a soda, you hand one to your dad. "Cheers." Your exploration continues, and you open the double doors to the bedroom. "This huge bed is just for me? The mattress is the size of my bedroom!" In the bathroom, a vast tub awaits. "I could swim in there," you declare excitedly.
Your dad appears content, a smile gracing his face. "Seeing you smile like that really takes me back," he says, attempting to conceal his emotions. "That smile doesn't come out too often anymore," he adds before turning away, sniffling and hiding his face. "Baabaa, it's okay. Look, grief hits us all at different times. It's been a few years, and I half expect them to walk into the room, laughing about something they heard on the radio or TV." Regaining his composure, he clears his throat. "Kiddo, I see her in you. Maybe that's why I'm better on the phone than in person. You've grown up, and her essence is all around you." He embraces you warmly, a hug you both need. "Pa, you have every right to miss her, but remember, my face also reflects you, so let's not use that as an excuse, okay?" He understands you're lightening the mood; he lost his partner, you lost your mom and best friend-a double blow for you-and you prefer not to dwell on these feelings for too long.Your dad lingers a bit longer, his phone incessantly ringing, which he keeps ignoring. "Dad, someone wants to talk to you; maybe you should take the call," you suggest. His ears turn red, and he looks down. "Don't laugh, but one of the guys set up a dating profile for me, and it won't stop buzzing. I don't know how to silence it," he admits, clearly embarrassed. You can't help but find the situation amusing. "Well, I'm not going to help you with that one, but there is a way to turn off the notifications. Show me your phone," you say. Carefully to avoid interacting with any messages, you switch the phone to vibrate. "Now, you'll still be bothered, but it'll just be you who knows," you say with a laugh.
You wake up an hour later, cursing. Checking your watch, you realize it's after lunch. Making your way to the kitchen, you grab some snacks and peruse the hotel's pamphlets. Indeed, there's a spa, complete with an on-site beauty therapist. The list of treatments promises numerous health benefits. Calling the desk, you book a massage and exfoliation. A time is set for you. Taking a real look around the apartment, you notice they've provided a swimsuit and a vast array of toiletries and creams. The desk calls to ask if you'd prefer to dine in your suite or at the hotel restaurant. You choose the restaurant, eager to see it.
Your dad comes over around 11 a.m., "I can see you have relaxed into this life, kiddo." he waves his arm over his head, "it suits you. Maybe one of the doctors will tickle your fancy and you will fall in love and he will take care of all your needs" he blushes a bit and stops talking". Responding with "dad, I dont need a man to make me happy, well not just any man, haha, I dont need to be taken care of, you make it sound like being in a relationship is a task and not something rewarding, anyway, I dont have time for any of the doctors at work, why, because im working"
The afternoon is nice, and you learn more about what he has been doing in his spare time. He's been decorating and renovating his apartment.
YOU ARE READING
Love hits hard.
FanfictionIt's time to make some choices. You have been putting it off, and people are asking questions. At your age, you feel the pressure. There is always work to be done and smiles to fake. The endless faces and the same questions every time. That's whe...
