Then I contacted his mother. Greetings, I am Abbie. Where is Matthew at this time?

Endorsed Media

“Oh no, my dear,” was Claire’s response. Asking, “Is everything okay?”

It is, without a doubt. Oops, I see. I thought he was simply taking a stroll.

Attempting to reach his closest buddy James, I ended the call.

“No, Abbie, we still haven’t received any communication from him,” James said, expressing empathy for my worries.

Matthew stayed away.

Their incessant questioning of “Where’s Daddy?” continued.

The cop vigorously shook his head. I’m sorry, but grownups may just vanish whenever they choose. Our options are limited.

Feeling both alone and powerless, I departed from the station.

Our once-cozy suburban house was now haunted by an unsettling quiet when I got home. The kids were gathered in the living room beside me.

“Listen, everyone, I have something important to tell you,” I said, my voice quivering. My father is… He has departed for an extended period.

“Mommy, why?” my little one said.

I said, “I am not sure, my love,” as I drew her into an embrace. “But hey, we gotta be tough, alright?”

A whirlwind of sobbing and questioning went by in the days that followed.

I could feel Matthew’s presence in every room of the home.