Heaven Sent

      Since losing my husband, Lawrence when I was two weeks pregnant, Larry’s best friend Kyle had been visiting regularly seeing to our needs. I had begun to rely on Kyle; maybe even love him but was that fair to Larry's memory? Kyle had even moved closer so he could help us out. He had loved Lawrence as much as I did, and he adored Sophie. I needed to see him I decided. Calling him I begged Kyle to look after Sophie, so I could shower.. I only hoped Kyle could handle her colic episodes.

    Hearing the doorbell ring I cursed under my breath; I should have told Kyle to knock softly. Answering the door with Sophie in my arms, Sophie let out a huge wail.

“You should come with a warning sound,” Kyle chuckled and took her from my arms.

      Stopping crying immediately Sophie looked up into Kyle’s eyes with a doting expression. She cooed and laughed going to sleep in his arms. I left them going to have my shower. Coming back now dressed and refreshed I found Kyle rocking Sophie. Eyes open Sophie smiled at Kyle and said, “Dada.”

Kyle looked at me stricken and said, “”I’m sorry Josie. She could have said that to anyone.”

“But she didn’t, she said it to you,” I commented.

“I miss Larry, too.” Kyle stated.

“I’ve been thinking about your proposal…”

“Don’t say no, yet.

“I accept.”

“You do?”

“I do.”

“You’re sure?”

“I am.”

“Tomorrow, with Sophie, at the courthouse?”

     I looked over at Kyle, Sophie was gurgling at him and I nodded. Kyle would make a great dad and an even better father. I looked up at the heavens through the window and for moment I could swear I saw Larry smiling down at us and I smiled too. Life could begin again.

©Sheilagh Lee  July 30 2018