James Rodriguez
๐ค SpeakerAppearances Over Time
Podcast Appearances
Her ashes sat in an oak box on my bookshelf.
These were facts.
If there she stood off the way partially translucent, the foliage behind her visible through her form, but unmistakably Clara.
Daddy, she said, smiling that gap-toothed smile from second grade.
I've been waiting for you.
My hand holding the flashlight didn't shake.
My breathing remained controlled.
Training takes over when the mind can't process what it's experiencing.
You're not real.
I said aloud.
She tilted her head the way she always did when confused.
I feel real.
She reached toward me.
Small fingers stretching across impossible distance.
I miss you.
I step backward.
Hit the radio transmit button, James.
Checking in.
All clear.
Northeast perimeter.