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But I can't stop any of it

I'm not in control here

Not even a little

I release my mom's embrace and take a step backward

Dad is waiting at the kitchen table, his hands in his pockets, his eyes on the floor

He looks up atto miss you so much We'll call every day And visit as soon as we can" He smiles "Or we can fly you out to visit with Grandma Hoould that be?"

I want to tell him to throay his shitty consolation prize, but I don't The thought of visiting Grand The affection in his voice is too earnest "Okay"

He steps forward and pullsto ace your classes"

Myto excel Everyone expects ht, all the time It's a lot of pressure Even if most of it comes from myself "Thanks, Dad"

"You're such a bright young woet so lucky I love you so irl"

"I love you too"

He steps backward Reaches for his suitcase, the black one with the plain red tag

He looks to Mohtmare"

Mo to be okay alone, Kay? We can drop you off at the Kanes' house"

I shake