Sometimes, the ones we love find ways to remind us that we’re never truly alone.
Working at a small diner means sometimes finding last-minute solutions for childcare. My babysitter canceled, so I brought my four-year-old son, Micah, with me to work. It was Halloween, and he was excited to wear his firefighter costume—red helmet, coat, and all. I set him up with crayons and a grilled cheese at a booth, reminding him to stay put while I worked during the dinner rush.
At some point, between refilling coffee and taking orders, I looked over—and he was gone.
Panic hit me instantly. I called his name, rushed to the backroom, and checked under the tables. Nothing. My heart pounded as I ran toward the kitchen, thinking he might have wandered in.
And that’s when I saw him.
