I rushed to get the table ready for dinner. I made sure everything from the meal itself to the placing of the cutlery was perfect. When i had finally finished, I took a step back to look over my work. Perfect.

finally, dad was coming home from his work trip. I always looked forward to his return, planning something special for us to do each time. This time, we'd be having a fancy dinner, listen to some music--and possibly do some horrible dancing--then relax in our pyjamas and watch a movie together.

I hopped onto the couch and got out my phone, rereading the message my dad had sent.

Just about to get on the plane! I'll be home soon! Can't wait to see you sweetie!!

I grinned at my phone. He'd be here any minute now.

Any minute...

Numb.

That's the only word I can think of, that could describe how I felt right then.

Everything was just... Numb.

I could hear the preacher speaking, but I didn't know what he was saying.

I knew that my best friend and Miss Crystal were beside me, holding me. But I couldn't feel their embrace.

The only thing I could hear were my thoughts...

Why? Why him? Is this really happening? This can't be happening... It can't! This is a dream! I'll wake up, and he'll be here. He'll be here! This isn't happening to me!

So loud.

Time didn't seem to exist either. Because the next thing I knew, we were in the car, driving. And after that, we were all standing in a circle.

I stared at them as they lowered him deeper... And deeper...

That couldn't be him in there. Not my dad!

"Wait!"

I jumped forward, eager to stop them. They couldn't bury my dad!

"Stop!' I cried, tears threatening to pour out.

"Bailee!" Kim and Miss Crystal called, coming after me.

"No! No, you can't do this!" I yelled as Kim and Miss Crystal grabbed me and tried pulling me back. 

"Please! Don't go! Don't go, daddy!"

Tears began pouring out of my eyes, blurring my vision.

"Bailee," Miss Crystal said softly as she and Kim pulled me back. "He's gone."

"No... No! He can't be!" I insisted, the tears rolling down my cheeks.

"I'm so sorry Bailee," Kim apologised. I could hear the brokenness in her voice.

"No..." I whispered, shaking my head. I watched them begin to shovel the dirt over his coffin. "No... No..."

I feel onto my knees, sobbing. This is couldn't be happening! He couldn't be gone!

I felt Kim and Miss Crystal's arms wrap around me as they joined me on the ground.

"I just want him back..." I whispered.