Chapter 38: Lost
Jamal watched Abigail disappear into the crowd, a strange feeling settling in his chest. He didn’t even know if they’d meet again but he found himself hoping they would.
"Why do you look sad? You haven’t forgotten that you’re in Westend to see your first love, right?" Stefan asked, startling Jamal who had completely forgotten about him and hadn’t realized he was behind him.
"Let’s check into a hotel before we leave for her office," Jamal said, heading in the opposite direction.
"I need to find the restroom first. Something I ate on the plane doesn’t sit well with my stomach," Stefan said, and Jamal nodded.
"I’ll wait for you at the baggage claim," Jamal said, rubbing the back of his neck as he tried to shake off the unease lingering in his chest.
He turned and walked toward the main terminal, weaving through the crowd of travelers. His thoughts were still on Abigail when a small figure caught his attention.
It was a little boy who couldn’t have been more than four years old. He had curly gold hair and round hazel eyes. He was standing alone near a row of empty chairs and looking around in distress.
People passed by without noticing him, too preoccupied with their own travels. Jamal’s heart squeezed at the sight, and he stepped closer and crouched down so he wasn’t towering over him. "Hey there, buddy. Are you lost?"
The little boy flinched slightly and looked up at Jamal with wide, uncertain eyes. He seemed unsure whether to trust him or not.
Jamal softened his voice. "It’s okay. I want to help. Do you know where your parents are?"
The boy hesitated, then shook his head. His little voice was barely above a whisper when he said, "I can’t find Daddy."