DECEMBER 22ND
Something made me pause right there by the oat bins. Reaching toward a crate led to our wagons knocking together.
"I'm so sor - " I looked up. "Daniel."
"Brooklyn."
That is where we remained. Where our wagons came together along the borders.
Not bad at all, really. His hair sat close to the scalp. Over a thick sweater, faded jeans hung loose. That kind of look just stuck.
"You're home for the holidays."
"Yeah. You too."
"Visiting my parents."
Silence. Awkward.
"How are you?"
"Good. Really good. Work is great. I got offered a full-time position."
A grin spread over his face. Now there's something you do not see every day. Truly glad it worked out like this
"Thanks. How about you?"
"Busy. Teaching. Research." He paused. "I got your text. Thank you."
"Thanks for understanding."
"I meant it. I'm proud of you."
"Thank you."
"Are you happy?"
Loaded question. "Yeah. Are you?"
"Getting there."
