Chapter 15 - The Skyline in a New Light
That evening, a cool October breeze swept through the city.
Toby stood in his bedroom, wearing his flannel pajamas, looking out the large panoramic windows at the twinkling Chicago skyline.
Marcus stepped into the room, carrying a bedtime storybook. He walked over to the glass and stood beside his son. Months ago, this view had felt like a cold, indifferent prison cell while Toby lay broken in Room 412. Tonight, the city lights sparkled like a million little victories.
Toby looked up at Marcus. "Dad? Do you remember when I was in the hospital?"
Marcus’s heart gave a gentle, familiar tug. "I do, Toby. Every day."
"I asked Mom if we could stop waiting for you," Toby whispered, his hazel eyes wide and thoughtful.
Marcus took a slow breath, knelt down beside him, and wrapped his arm around his boy's shoulders. "I know you did. And you were right to ask. I was standing right there, but I wasn't really there for you."
Toby leaned his head against Marcus's arm, staring out at the skyscrapers. "Are you going to make us wait anymore?"
"Never again," Marcus said, his voice ringing with absolute certainty. "Wherever you are, wherever life takes you, if you look over your shoulder, I'll be right there. Not behind glass. Right beside you."
Toby smiled, turning around and climbing into his bed, pulling his quilt up to his chin. Beside his pillow sat Leo the excavator, its scarred plastic arm tucked safely under the blankets.
May you like
"Read chapter three, Dad," Toby said, yawning softly. "The one where the ship sails home."
Marcus sat on the edge of the mattress, opened the worn book, and began to read aloud into the warm, quiet room. He didn't rush through the sentences. He savored every single word, knowing that the greatest empire he would ever build was resting safe and sound beneath his roof.
