"Anyway, the work is almost done. Your father and I just went over the finishing plans." He pauses before adding softly. "After that, I will be heading back to France."

My breath stops. "France?"

He looks away for a moment as though he doesn't like the expression on my face.

"You know I have to return eventually. I have stayed longer than I planned."

The words hit me like a stone in the chest. I try to smile, but it comes across as forced and tight.

"You are really leaving."

He ...