Long Way Down — Everybody

EVERYBODY

was so happy to see him.

Shawn!

Buck yelped,

reaching out for him.

They slapped hands.

Buck fiddled with

the gold chain around

Shawn’s neck.

Moved the clasp to the back.

Shawn looked at Dani.

Look at you!

he said,

taking her hand, spinning her around.

Uncle Mark

gave him a light tap in the ribs.

Big man!

he said proudly.

Shawn turned,

gave him a hug,

caught a glimpse of our father.

Pop!

he said,

natural,

his face beaming.

Our father

wrapped his arms

around Shawn, cocooning him.

Then pulled away,

shook hands like men,

like partners.