23.
Steve hit a diner, sliding into a booth across from Tony.
"I'm glad you called. It means a lot to me Steve."
"Me too, dad. I want to make things right."
"So do I."
"How are you feeling?"
"I'm alright. But I'm goin' nuts in that apartment. I miss your mother."
"Why don't you leave?"
"That's what I wanted to talk to you about. I decided I'm going to retire."
"Florida?"
"Miami Beach. I have the money put aside, and I could afford it. If I get bored, I could pick up a part-time job."
"It's time, dad. You have to move on. The best thing to do is to get out of the area, and get a fresh start."
"I have a few things to take care of, get my money together, then I want to leave."
"It's a good move. Get out of the area--relax, and take some time for yourself."
"I understand you're busy with your life and all, but I'd like it if you could come down now and then."
"Of course. Once I beat out parole, I'll plan a trip."
"I hope you understand something.…" Tony paused, "I never apologized for not being around all the time."
"We've been through this."
"All those years--locked up. She never left me. Guys in there would get divorced every week. I always waited for my number to come up. Never did."
"You can't change the past."
"I know."
"Don't fill your head up with that stuff. You were a good father."
"Thanks for tellin' me that. I knew the kids at school made fun of ya--it wasn't easy. That's my biggest regret."
"That was a long time ago."
"On her last visit--I thought she was leaving. I told her we'd move to Florida. I wanted to take care of her--start over."
"That's what you should do."
"I really don't want to leave until you're on your feet, Steve."
"I could take care of myself."
"You sure?"
"Yeah. Trust me. All of that shit--it's in the past. I'm here to start over."
"I hope so," finished his father.