It had been three years since Kermit left me for good. Since then, Maya began third grade, my mom moved in to help out, and I got a job at *gulp* the diner. For some reason, my acting wasn't working out. Huh.
Anyway, two weeks ago, Kermit called and said he wanted to talk. A million things rushed through my head. "What if he's dying?" "What if he's moving to Africa?" Then it hit me, "what if he wants to get back together?" I knew it sounded crazy but why else would he call me on a Thursday night and ask if I was free that next Saturday. I didn't know. So I decided to get dressed extra fancy in case. *phone rings* I suddenly realize that's Kermit. But why would he- "Hello? Kathryn it's for you!" I picked up the phone. "Thanks mom. Hello?"
"I just realized I can't make it tonight. I have other plans." My heart stopped. I couldn't belie...well I could...but how could he? It's not like I walked out on him, leaving him to take care of a growing 6-year-old.
"Oh really? What came up? I mean, tough. I'm bus- VERY busy too." I couldn't sound like I was waiting and wanting to see him. Even though I dropped everything tonight TO see him.
"Yeah, just work stuff. Anyway there was something I wanted to tell you. It's important." This was it. He was finally-
"I'm getting remarried." I fell into the couch as if someone had pushed a battering ram into my stomach. 'Wh-wh-wha-what?" I said very out of breath.
"I met someone at the office I work at. We are getting married this July. The reason I wanted to tell you is-"
"To invite me? The last knife you can stab me with?! Watch you leave me forever?!" I interrupted. This was just coming too fast.
"Ooh sorry. Only family. But don't tell Maya, I don't wanna break her little 8-yea-" "Nine." "Right. Nine-year-old heart." I scoffed. What a father to forget how old his first daughter is? I couldn't stop the tears from stinging my eyes.
"Anyway, that's it. I guess I have nothing else to say. Maybe I'll talk to you but I don't think so. Bye." And that was it. The last thing I heard Kermit say to me. I started to cry. "Well Maya is doing homework! And I have to go to work now!" I yelled into the phone after the call ended. I'd have to beg for my shift back, now. Suddenly, I heard a little voice come from the door frame.
"Was that Daddy?" Maya asked shakily. I nodded yes as I took off my jewelry and put on my work clothes. She looked betrayed. "Why would you tell him off? Don't you want him back? Why would you make plans when you could see my daddy again? Don't you love him?!" I started toward her door. "Maya, I-" She shut the door. I looked at the clock and realized I had to leave. "IF YOU WON'T LOVE DADDY, I WON'T LOVE YOU!" she shouted through the door. I had to leave. I cried as I left the apartment.