*Ava*

“Ava? Will you please come to Chicago? For me?”

“Of course!” I reply quickly. “You don’t even need to ask, Dad. I wouldn’t miss it. I told you I’d be there, didn’t I?”

My father sounds relieved. “You did. But I know you have your new job and–”

“I won’t miss it, no matter what,” I say firmly.

“Alright, pumpkin. That’s what I was hoping to hear. I love you,” my father responds, and I can tell he’s ...