Someone within the crowd yells out a sleazy joke, and my father laughs, throwing one back. Yes, he still knows how to smile, but his smiles seem to be reserved only for the Family now. He starts his speech by recollecting a funny story from his youth, and people soak it up with wide eyes. I watch him entertain the mob while I play with one end of the red scarf I’ve tied around my ponytail.
After my demon left this morning, I felt that familiar dejection that comes with each of his departures. But this time, my heart didn’t ache so much because I knew he’d be coming back to me, once he’s finished doing whatever he needs to do. He promised to return to me, and when he does, we can start anew.
I lift my drink, hiding my smile behind the rim of my glass. Maybe I’ll even offer him my hand nex
