An empty hall, unbelievable, the privilege of high school came with a week head start; or rather, headache. I passed Luan's room, silence snuffed her laughter. Chaos had conquered our house for years, but like ever step of the staircase, they moved on and out, leaving life's footprint. My experience? Stuck in the middle, in the family; relationships; life; too young for this, too old for that; same routine, different day. Though, some traditions, like that warm syrup aroma of Dad's school day farewell stacks…those can stay.
"Morning Dad, what smells great?"
"Ahhh you know me kiddo. How about you? Sleep well?"
"Eh, a little nervous and I've got this small kink behind my leg."
"It's called age, haha, you better start stretching sport."
"At fifteen?"
"Never too early to learn a good habit. Now feast your eyes; and your stomach!"
A fresh golden stack laid before me.
"Mwuah, A masterpiece as usual dad."
"Thank you maestro, I shall frame them the wall."
"What about the ceiling?"
"Call me Lynnangelo."
"Mom would call it a mess."
We laughed when he snapped a photo for the "Loud and Proud" fridge collage, syrupy snacks were a staple cure for sour stomachs.
"Thanks for the stacks, dad."
He grasped my shoulder, a smile cracked, scanning me head to toe.
"A big meal for my big man."
I froze with a toothy grin, the crack quivered, and he sent me out with a hug.