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“Do you have any other brilliant advice?”

“Be true to yourself,” Wolfgang announces with mock theatrics. “Love thyself. And always practice safe sex.”

I laugh. “Thanks, oh wise one.”

“Anytime.”

About halfway to the cafe, my phone rings out of the blue with my father’s ringtone. He rarely calls.

“Let me get this,” I tell Wolfgang. We pause, and I fish out my cell to answer it quickly. “Hey, Daddy,” I greet him, adjusting the weight of my bag.

“Afternoon, E,” he replies kind and conversationally. “How are you doing?”

“Well. Thank you.”

“Good. I hope exams have gone as expected?”

“Yes, for the most part.”

“I’m glad to hear that.” He harrumphs. “I was calling because I have a favor to ask.”

“What is it?”

“How would you feel about joining your mother and me for brunch tomorrow? We’ll be in town.”