Your father tries to contact your family.

Even though Allison was technically alive you still grieved for her in a way. With having to keep up a pretense around your friends and having to deal with the very real funeral, you did feel a sense of loss. You didn't have much of an opportunity to talk openly with Tony and Linda - they were constantly surrounded by family and friends who weren't 'in the know' - but you were happy to be able to discuss things at home with Allison and your siblings.

Allison herself took it hard. She wanted to go console her parents, but she knew that wasn't an option. Given the constraints of the the agreement with the hospital, you were all going to have to get used to her living as your mother. You comforted her as best you could, saying that at least she would still be able to have a connection to her family - albeit as a family friend rather than a daughter.

Tabitha and David were surprisingly supportive as well, assuring her that she was part of their family now. That helped - especially since you still felt somewhat awkward around her. You loved Allison but you were still struggling with what your new relationship would be. Whenever you were around her, you could only see and hear your mother. It was difficult for you identify Allison inside that body with all your senses telling you that she was your mom. Allison sensed your discomfort and didn't press - but you could see a growing determination in her to bring you around.

The funeral gave you an excuse to avoid that for the moment, and you spent much of your time at Tony and Linda's. So you were very surprised to come home one day after the funeral to find your father there talking to Allison.

"Hey Tim!" he said, giving you a hug. "I'm sorry to hear about Allison. I really like her - you two were good together. Tell Tony & Linda that if I can do anything, anything at all, to let me know."

You could see his concern and sincerity. For all your dad's flaws, he genuinely loved you and your siblings and you knew he was being honest.

"Thanks, Dad. I'll let them know," you answered, returning his hug. "So, what's up? Did you come by because of that?" you asked. Your dad hadn't been by much since the divorce. While not completely acrimonious, there was alot of tension between your parents and they had tried to avoid displaying that to you kids. Looking back objectively, you could see that their split had been building for a long time. Your dad was an airline pilot and thus travelled often. The continued separation - combined with your father's reliance on his looks and very charming personality - wore away at their marriage. The breaking point came when your mother discovered his affair with a young flight attendant.

"Not exactly," your dad said in answer to your question. "I did want to express my sympathy in person. But I actually came by to see your mother. We've been talking a bit on the phone the last few days, trying to work out a few things. I finally managed to get her to agree to go to dinner with me to talk stuff over in person."

You looked in stunned amazement at Allison who blushed slightly. "I...I didn't want to bother you, Tim, with everything on your mind. Don wanted to go over some aspects of our settlement - nothing really to concern you. I can handle it."

You could hear some steel in her voice. Allison was always fiercely independent - and you could see that she was not happy with your recent lack of 'closeness'. You winced in guilt, knowing that you should have spoken to her before now. Well, you supposed she could manage your father...

Your dad chuckled at your concerned expression. "It's nothing to worry about, buddy. I...well, honestly, I feel like I've not been fair to you guys, so I want to do some more. Maybe set up an education fund for you kids. Make sure your mom has enough money to live comfortably. And I'd like to spend more time with you all - to see you more."

He stood up.

"So, Tim, how about you watch your brother & sister tonight? Here's some money to order pizza or something - and a little more for your trouble," your dad said, handing you two twenties. "Ready, Jen?" he asked, turning back to Allison.

"Yes, I am Don. Let me grab my purse." Allison picked up your mom's purse and they walked out the door.