The lost son ~John Frusciante and Josh Klinghoffer

32. Meet me at the coffee shop

I was standing behind the door with a backpack. I packed just a few things. I had no idea how long I would be staying in New York.

- Josh? Hi darling!

Said Gail when she opened the door.

- John, Josh is here, come down!

She shouted and a few seconds later grandpa appeared.

- Oh, hey kid! It's nice to see you!

- It's nice to see you too.

- What brings you here? We didn't know that you were coming.

- Um... Can you do something for me?

- Sure, what is it?

- Can I stay here for a bit?

- Of course! You don't even have to ask!

- Thanks. You're saving my life.

- Has something happened?

- Yeah, but I don't know if I should share it with you.

- Fine, you can tell us later. Go unpack and I'll prepare dinner.

*

After dinner we sat next to the fire place watching the TV.

- So what happened? I can see that you're sad.

- Lilly was pregnant. I didn't tell you because it was just the beginning. And we lost the baby last week.

- Good God, I'm so sorry...

Gail said, hugging me.

- And then she took Johnny and moved out. She doesn't let me see him.

- She needs time, she must be in shock.

- I'd go crazy without my baby so I've decided to come here. Staying with you has always helped me.

- And you can stay with us as long as you want.

- I didn't tell you yet but I've found my aunt and cousins.

- Oh really?

- Yeah, Elizabeth is my mom's sister. She has 2 sons who are around my age. They are great, I'm really happy that I have them in my life.

- Life isn't so bad after all, you see?

Said John.

- Maybe you're right.

*

The next day I got up pretty early and decided to go for a walk. On the way I've entered a small bar and ordered a coffee.
I was drinking it and reading a newspaper when I heard a voice behind me.

- Hey, are you Josh? Josh Klinghoffer?

I slowly turned around and saw a stunning girl. She was wearing Metallica t-shirt and ripped jeans.

- Hey, yeah, it's me. And what's your name?

- I'm Kate. I'm a huge fan. I've never even dreamed about meeting you, I still can't believe my eyes. Can... Can I hug you?

- Of course you can, come here.

I said and opened my arms. She hugged me and I could smell sweet strawberry scent from her long, blonde hair.

- Thank you. I'll never forget that day.

She said, smiling wildly.

- Would you mind if I sit next to you?