Jake's kitchen was pretty unkempt. Unwashed dishes were still left in the sink but Ute didn't seem to mind as she made her way to his fridge. Her eyes scanned its contents before letting out a sigh. "All you've got are a couple of cans of bud-light and some eggs. You're not really giving me much to work with are you?" She teased. Jake grinned sheepishly. " Yeah, I haven't stocked it up for a few weeks." Pushing away a strand of her hair, she looked at him and said " I guess we'll have to eat out then. Let's get some grocery shopping done too." Jake nodded in agreement as he made his way to the door. Ute followed behind him but something caught her eye. The framed photograph on the wall showed Jake and another woman. Between them stood a cheerful girl with brown hair. Ute took a good look at the photo before Jake yelled " You coming?". Getting into the truck he said "Let's hit up the diner. They serve some really good pancakes." She smiled as the Ford pulled out of the driveway. The rays of sunlight shone through the windscreen, casting a warm golden glow on them. They sat in silence for a few moments as they took in the sight of trees passing by before she asked " You have a daughter?"
Jake beamed and replied " Yep I do. As cheesy as it may sound, she's my best friend in the whole world. Some days when I don't really have the strength to get out of bed, she's my motivation to continue to take on life head on." Then he said in a more serious tone " You remember Shanghai? After using Dutch boy to take out that typhoon, I was reprimanded for my reckless behaviour and dismissed. The first few days afterwards sucked. I just couldn't grapple with the idea that although I just saved the world, not only did I not receive any recognition, I was also lambasted. Spending time with her helped alot. I realised that I still had a purpose you know? Sometimes my heart breaks when I think how hard it must be on her … I tried to stay in the marriage but things just didn't work out for the both of us. I try my best to make sure that she doesn't feel like a minority just because me and her mother are no longer together but i'm not sure if its enough…"
Ute placed a comforting hand on his thigh and gently rubbed it. She said softly " I'm sure she appreciates it and she probably loves you very much too. Don't be so hard on yourself okay? I think you're a great dad." Jake swallowed before letting out a small grin. " Thank you" he replied softly. The pair sat in silence for the rest of the ride before the pickup pulled up into the driveway of the Denny's.