Projection

57 • lunch

"I'm Abby."

Charles hugged her tightly. "Oh, baby girl."

She tried her hardest not to try, but it was hard. She embraced her father just as tight, just as warmly. They parted after a long moment.

"Look at you."

Charles couldn't stop staring at his daughter. She had the same gold toned hair, just longer than her shoulders, and same green eyes. Now, that hair was carefully curled and those emerald eyes positively shone. Abby laughed shakily, half-nervous, half-relieved.

The two sat and made small talk before ordering. They talked about everything they could, catching up on everything and reminiscing younger days.

"You know, I always knew you were going to be different."

"Yeah?"

"Mhm," Charles hummed, "I knew right from the moment Mom's lipstick and blush began disappearing."

Abby just laughed.