Change

The last time I saw Charlie it did not end well. Thankfully we did not come to blows, but voices had been raised, words had been said, feelings were expressed, and this had led to Charlie walking out saying if his family would not let him live his life then he was not a part of this family.

That was ten years ago. Once the dust had settled, I attempted to find Charlie. Walking the streets for days and hours on end I showed his picture to everyone, entering every squat and hovel I could think of, only to end up empty-handed. I could only hope that wherever he was he had made peace with himself.

I was surprised one day when I received a note from Charlie. A small handwritten envelope, addressed simply to “Dad” was shoved through the letter slot of my front door. The letter said that he had gathered his thoughts and wanted to meet. The signature was unrecognisable, but I didn’t care. This was a chance for reconciliation.

So, that is where I am right now. Sitting in the local coffee shop he knew I loved so much. Peering out the window I try to catch a glimpse of him approaching. Suddenly I hear a soft, sweet voice behind me.

“Hello Dad.”

Turning, I find myself looking at a pretty, blonde female. She wore a smart dress suit and whilst she had made herself up it was not overdone. Her deep blue eyes had the same Charlie twinkle and as I looked into them, I knew my boy was in there somewhere.

“Hello Char...”

“My name is Charlene now, Dad. It’s good to see you again.” She squeezed my hand in a gesture of friendliness.

We sat, knowing we had a lot to talk about. And I had a lot of educating myself to do.