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I frowned. “Watch your mouth. I’m spiritually supervising.”

Kaidence busted out laughing.

I laughed too. “Just don’t be telling your mama I said that yet.”

He nodded enthusiastically before looking back at the drawing.

“What about a baby sister? Can you give me that too?”

The smile fell from my face.

Damn.

He really wanted that little girl.

I looked at him. “Well, that one might be a little harder.”

His face fell.

“But I’ll see what I can do.”

The smile immediately returned. “Really?”

“Yeah, son.”

I nodded toward the door. “Now go wash your hands and get ready for dinner before your mama comes back up here fussing.”

He stood and started gathering his crayons. “Okay, Daddy.”

I watched him put everything away before he ran toward the door.

Right before stepping into the hallway, he stopped and turned around.

“Daddy?”

“Yes, son.”

His voice was much softer this time. “You gonna disappear again?”

That question wiped the smile straight off my face.

I walked over and stood in front of him. “Not if I can help it.”

“Promise?”

“I promise I’m gonna do everything I can to stay close to you.”

He nodded, seemingly satisfied.

Then, just when I thought we were finished, he whispered, “But if you figure out how to go through the toilet, tell me. Love you!”

My chest tightened.

I smiled. “Love you too, son.”

He disappeared down the hall.

I stayed there for a moment before turning back toward the picture he had left on the desk.