Beneath the Surface

chapter 45: space

Coffee Shop – Morning

The cozy ambiance of the coffee shop contrasts with the heaviness of the conversation about to unfold. The smell of freshly brewed coffee fills the air, mingling with the soft hum of quiet conversations. Sarah and Lucas sit at a small table near the window, each holding a steaming cup of coffee. Lucas appears calm, but there's a determined look in his eyes. Sarah seems both attentive and anxious, her fingers nervously tracing the rim of her coffee cup.

Lucas (taking a deep breath): "Sarah, I wanted to talk to you about something important. I am scheduled to join an ice climbing expedition in Norway. It's something I've been dreaming about for a long time, and I've decided to take it."

Sarah (looking surprised and concerned): "Norway? That sounds like a big step. How long will you be gone?"

Lucas (nodding): "The expedition is scheduled for several months. It's a significant opportunity for me, both personally and professionally. I know this might come as a shock, and I understand if it complicates things between us."

Sarah (hesitating, then speaking softly): "It does complicate things. I've been trying to figure out my own feelings and what's best for me and Stan, and now you're telling me you'll be away for months. It's hard for me to process all of this."

Lucas (nodding in understanding): "I realize it's a lot to take in. I didn't want to leave without telling you. I think it's important for us to be honest with each other about our plans and intentions. I want to give you the space you need to make your decision without added pressure."

Sarah (sighing, looking out the window): "I appreciate your honesty, Lucas. I genuinely wish you the best with your expedition. It sounds like an incredible opportunity... But please take cafe, some write ups says it's dangerous... I'll pray for you...  But it also means that I need to figure out where I stand with everything, especially with Tristan's presence in our lives."

Lucas (reaching out to touch her hand gently): "Thank you for understanding. I hope that while I'm away, you can find the clarity you need. I care about you and Stan deeply, and I want what's best for you both. I'll be thinking of you and hoping for the best... I will be missing you both...Remember, I love you so much..."

Sarah (smiling sadly): "I wish you the best too, Lucas. I know how much this means to you. I hope this time away helps you achieve your goals and brings you fulfillment."

Lucas (standing up, preparing to leave): "I'll keep you updated while I'm away. If you need to talk or need anything, just let me know. And remember, I'm not going anywhere forever. I'll be back, and we can see where things stand then... One thing sure is, my heart belongs to you and Stan."

Sarah (standing as well, looking conflicted): "Thank you for understanding and giving me this space. I hope you have a safe trip and a great experience."

Lucas (smiling warmly): "Take care, Sarah. I'll be thinking of you."

As Lucas leaves, Sarah watches him go, feeling a mix of sadness and relief. The weight of their conversation lingers, but she's determined to use this time apart to gain clarity and make decisions that are right for her and Stan. She takes a deep breath, focusing on the path ahead and the challenges she needs to face.

Sarah sits back down, her mind swirling with thoughts of Lucas, Tristan, and the future. The coffee shop's warmth provides a momentary comfort as she begins to process the next steps in her journey.

Sarah's House – Early Morning

The sky outside is still dark, tinged with the soft hues of dawn. The atmosphere inside Sarah's house is calm but filled with an undercurrent of bittersweet emotions. Lucas stands in the doorway, holding a small duffel bag, his face showing a mix of determination and sadness. Sarah and Stan are at the door to see him off, their expressions reflecting the complexity of the moment.

Lucas (gently but firmly): "Sarah, Stan, I wanted to drop by this morning before my flight. I'm about to leave for the airport, but I need to ask you something."

Sarah (trying to smile, her eyes betraying her sadness): "Of course, Lucas. What's up?"

Lucas (taking a deep breath): "I'd prefer it if you didn't come to the airport to see me off. I want to remember this moment as something personal between us, and I think it would be easier for me to leave if we say our goodbyes here."

Stan (looking up at Lucas, confused but understanding): "Are you sure, Dada? I thought we were going to see you off at the airport."

Lucas (nodding, his voice soft): "I'm sure, Stan. It's just that I want this moment to be simple and not to prolong the goodbyes. It's already hard enough as it is."

Sarah (taking Lucas's hand, her voice trembling slightly): "I understand. It's going to be strange not seeing you off at the airport, but I respect your wish. Are you all set for your trip?"

Lucas (nodding, giving her a reassuring smile): "Yes, everything's ready. I've got my ticket and all the necessary gear. I just wanted to make sure we had this moment before I go."

Sarah (glancing at Stan, who is quietly holding her hand): "Well, I hope you have a safe trip and that the expedition goes well. We'll be thinking of you."

Lucas (kneeling down to Stan's level): "Take care of your mom, alright? And remember, if you ever need anything or want to talk, I'm just a call away."

Stan (nodding, a bit solemn): "I will, Dada. Safe travel... I'll miss you."

Lucas (standing up, looking at Sarah): "Thank you for everything, Sarah. I appreciate your understanding. I'll keep in touch while I'm away."

Sarah (forcing a smile, her eyes welling up): "Safe travels, Lucas. And thank you for everything. We'll be here when you get back."

Lucas (giving Sarah a final hug, then ruffling Stan's hair gently): "Goodbye for now. Take care."

Lucas (trying to maintain composure, but his voice breaks): "I just want to thank you both for everything. This... this isn't easy for me."

Sarah (her eyes misty, trying to offer a reassuring smile): "I know, Lucas. It's not easy for us either. Just take care of yourself."

Stan (hugging Lucas, his voice quiet but sincere): "We'll miss you, Dada."

Lucas (his emotions overcoming him, he wipes a tear): "I'll miss you both too. I wish things could have been different... Hug and kiss your Mommy for me, buddy."

He opens the car door, his movements slow and deliberate as he gets in. Sarah and Stan remain at the doorstep, their faces a mix of sadness and understanding. Lucas takes one last look at them before starting the engine. The car roars to life, and as he pulls out of the driveway, the tears he's been holding back finally fall.

Lucas (voice trembling, speaking to himself): "Goodbye... I hope you find what you're looking for, Sarah... Hug and kiss me to Stan too ."

The car drives off, its headlights cutting through the morning mist. As it turns the corner and disappears from view, Sarah and Stan stand silently, watching the empty street where Lucas's car once was. The silence that follows feels profound, a poignant reminder of the transition they are facing.

Sarah (turning to Stan, her voice soft but firm): "Let's head inside, sweetheart. We need to focus on us now."

Stan (nodding, holding her hand tightly): "Okay, Mommy."

They go back into the house, closing the door behind them. The morning light streams through the windows, illuminating the room with a new day's promise, even as they feel the loss of Lucas's presence. They move forward together, ready to face whatever comes next.