What We Seek

Part 13

Chapter Thirteen

"Hey, we're here, honey. Time for you to meet Richie. You know who he is! He's also 'dada' and he will be so excited to see you, even if he's not good excited!"

I got out of the driver's seat to go get her out of the car seat. She was awake, smiling and reaching out for me with her little sticky hands.

I never thought I'd be a dad. I calculated the crazy finances and lifestyle challenges years ago and knew that I didn't want that with Myra. I'm glad she didn't make it too far with you. The police didn't know where she got you from though, so now I'll take care of you. Tracking her was easier since she didn't leave the town she hid with you in. Richie has some money we could use to adopt you legally, even if I hate to spring this on him. Fuck, he was so upset when I left...I hope he's not wasted, high, or heartbroken. I really fucking hope he's not all three. That wouldn't make him a good influence, now would it? Come on, baby, let's go see your other father.

I didn't bother taking any of her things with me, only choosing to carry her in my arms as I approached Todd. He was seemingly bored but his eyes widened and he started running towards me when he realized who I was.

He looks so frantic and scared. I know that look from how I was as a child. His adult body showing me my own past means something's wrong.

"Eddie..."

"Todd, what's wrong? Why do you look so freaked out to see me?"

I could sense that he hadn't slept much in the past few days. I had to question what had happened in the week I had been gone.

What did Richie say to you? Did you have a rough time working here this week? Man, I can't believe that the same guy who looked so carefree when I met him seems so mortified.

"Richie's gone. I haven't seen him all week. He...he left in a way that I've never seen him leave. He was so...distant and...Eddie, that man was broken deep inside of who he is. Whatever happened between you two, you've got to go get in contact with him. I don't know where he went or why, but I'm honestly more worried about him than I have ever been after years of him drinking and smoking then wandering the streets where gangs live."

"Woah, Todd, slow down. He's gone?!"

Dammit, Richie! I just wanted you to trust me for one week...fuck, where could he have gone? Maybe there's a hint or something in the apartment.

"I'm pretty sure he's gone...I haven't seen a single smiling person leave this building in over a week."

"Okay, Todd, I'm going to go look for where he may have gone. Can I ask you a huge favor?"

"Yeah, man, what can I do to help you two?"
"Can you hold this little lady and keep her happy? I don't want her to sense that I'm as freaked out as I am. She's been through enough as is. Her name is Sophie."

"Yeah, I can handle little Sophie. Go see what you can find."

"Thank you, Todd."

I put a quick kiss on her forehead as I gently passed her to Todd's arms. I made sure he knew how to handle a young infant but I wasn't expecting him to be such a natural. He instantly wrapped his large hands in a supportive position while he started to talk with her.

I bet his kids are lucky to have him. I hope that I can be that for Sophie...but first we have to find her other dad.

I took the elevator, but I didn't hold still the whole time. I tapped my foot and crossed my arms in such an impatient act. My mind, heart rate, and breathing rushed quicker as I stepped off at the third floor and ran over to his door. I went to knock but the door simply opened.