The Angel

Afterword

How long has it been...?

The old man folded the letter neatly, even with his shaking, bony hands. A bittersweet smile graced his wrinkled features as he lay his head back onto the cushions behind him. Any moment now, and he'd be gone, up into the vast skies of blue above.

The oak shelf in front of him held multiple military memorabilia alongside sleek black frames of smiling pictures. He'd retired a decorated brigadier general. Badges and the old insignia was put on show to remind everyone who walked into the room of who he was... and who he is.

"It's addictive the minute you let yourself think the things that I say might just matter to someone."

A nurse that Alec hadn't quite noticed before entered the room. She walked right up to a set of lilac flowers on the bedside table and changed the water for it.

"All of this time, I've been keeping my mind on the running away."

She wasn't the best singer in the world, of course, but the tune sounded so... familiar.

"... And for the first time, I think I'd consider the stay."

"Excuse me, young lady, but where did that song come from?" Alec folded his hands into his lap.

The nurse smiled and look over at him. "It's from a musical, Waitress, Mister Daneil," she answered kindly. "Would you like me to stop singing?"

Alec shook his head. "No -- no... Go on. It's... comforting."

She nodded and continued. "Because you matter to me."

He closed his eyes, wandering far back into his head for dear memories.

Simple and plain and not much to ask from somebody...

You matter to me. I promise you do, you see?

You matter to me...

"Oh, Alec..."

His eyes opened at the long-forgotten nickname. It was all so clear now.

"Lil," he whispered softly, looking up at her with a gentle gaze.

"It's time for you to sleep now," she said, placing her hand on his cheek and pressing her forehead to his. "I've paused for just this one moment... so you can come and catch up with me."