Once I got back into the designated room backstage, my family cheered, their smiles wide and eyes shimmering with pride. I felt the love and their support, but my mind raced toward one person—Caroline.
"Congratulations, son," my dad said, his hand firm on my shoulder.
“Thank you,” I said, as I reached for my phone. I was grateful for my family, don’t get me wrong, but it was Caroline’s fiery spirit that I missed, her spark that I craved lately—it made me feel alive. She was the only person I wanted to talk to about this moment.
The screen lit up under my touch, and I had more alerts than I expected—meaning everyone must have been watching. But I ignored all the other alerts, looking for just one name.
Caroline
Minnesota, huh? Does that mean I need a winter coat?
Me
It does indeed
Caroline
Well I can probably do that but not so sure if I can pull off those earmuff things
Me
Trust me, you could pull off anything, Chaos
Caroline
I miss hearing you say that...
Caroline
Oh, no… what's wrong with me?
Me
Love that you miss me. Send me a picture and show me how much.
Caroline
Nah, would rather make you wait to see me in person
Me
I’ll deal with you later for that
Caroline
Tell me more
Me
Patience
Me
Got some interviews to do and we’ll be here late but we're driving back early tomorrow
Caroline
Sounds good. Congrats again! So happy for you.
