And just like that the earth disappeared beneath his feet and he felt his stomach jump. But he was still in his kitchen. He turned away from her and leaned on the counter.

His father was gone. It was better this way, he had told her. He had believed it. He had not realized until now that he had just been waiting... gathering the courage... thinking he still had some time...

He put his hand over his mouth. He could never set it right now. 'Da' was gone. His shoulders began to shake. Big tough Bill broke down in tears.