Last call

I heard there's this place you can go and speak to someone for the last time: it's called 'Last Call.'

It's a café that's just a few blocks away, no matter where you are. I've actually seen a glimpse of this place once, and even seen people sitting inside. When I try to look at the café, it disappears. They say it only shows up to those who need it most and allows you to enter when you are ready.

I've always wanted to go to this mystery café.

It finally happened; I didn't even notice at first, until the barista said 'last call' and then looked at the table behind me. I looked at her a little confused before turning around.

I turn around and in corner table of the café there are two people. They look familiar though. Like I know them from somewhere but can’t exactly place it.

I walk over to the table and up close are my great grandmother and my biological father.

“What is happening? Why-how is this possible?” Not understanding what is happening.

“Have a sit,” my grandmother had gestured to the seat in front of her. “We need to talk.”

“What’s there to talk about? You’re both dead,” they both looked at each other than gave me a pity look.

“There’s a reason why it’s called ‘last call’ but this the last time you’d be able to call on us. We’re here to give you what you need to know before we leave. For good.”

I’m devastated on what my grandma just said to me; “Like what do you mean the last time?”

“You no longer need us, honey,” my grandmother reach over for my hand but I pulled back. How do I even respond. “ I mean, we’ll be here in spirit to watch over you and guide you in the right direction. What I’m trying to say is, you have discovered a lot about yourself and your past. We have guided you to this point in getting you the answers you need. We are here because there is something you need answers to.”

I look blankly at them because I have no idea how to even respond.

“So, basically this is the last time I will see you? After today, when you answer what I need, you won’t have anything else to offer me? That’s unfair!”

“I know, but that’s how life works. You’re born, you grow, you live, you die. Everything you know and love continues,” my grandmother tried to be as gentle as she could.

“I don’t really have anything to ask or say though,” I feel guilty for calling them today for not actually needing them. But they are here because for some reason I do need them.

“We know this yes.”

“I think I just wanted to sit with you. I miss you, grandma.”

“I miss you too, sweetheart.”

“Just sitting with you, one more time, one last time, makes a huge difference to me. It just feels like no one is ever in my corner. You were the only one who ever was. Knowing no matter what, in your own way you were still there. Came when I needed you the most. Now I don’t need you, you’re leaving for ever.”

My grandma reaching over to grab my hands, this time I let her. Her hands feel so warm and soft. I miss that.

“This isn’t goodbye forever. This is just a see you later I will still be here for you but unable to come see you, talk to you like I’ve been able to before.”

“Basically, you are giving me the goodbye I never got?”

“Yes.”

“Can I tell you how grateful I am that you took care of me when I was a child? That time was my favourite. All I do is talk about you.”

“I know, I hear you all the time. Of course, under the circumstances, being able to help take care of you was my favourite.”

Everything started to fade. No one had to say goodbye because both sides could feel that this was the end. The feeling of her hands fading from mine was the greatest goodbye.