“A responsible amount.”
There was silence on the line.
“That is the least trustworthy phrase you have ever used.”
Frank laughed.
“She saved. She negotiated. She understands the costs. She’s paying insurance and operating expenses.”
“How much did you contribute?”
“Most of the purchase price.”
“Dad.”
“She earned it.”
“You always say that right before doing something generous enough to make the rest of us look emotionally negligent.”
“That is unfair.”
“Is it?”
Frank smiled.
Laura sighed.
“Is she happy?”
He looked at Emily.
Very few questions in life had easier answers.
“Yes.”
The irritation left Laura’s voice.
“Then I’ll yell at you tomorrow.”
“I look forward to it.”
“Tell her I’m proud of her.”
“I will.”
“And tell her not to drive like you.”
“I am an excellent driver.”
“You merge like you’re commanding an armored column.”
“That is an exaggeration.”
“Goodbye, Dad.”
She hung up.
Frank laughed to himself.
Emily looked over. “Mom?”
“Yes.”
“Mad?”
“Scheduled for tomorrow.”
Emily nodded. “That tracks.”
Frank stood.
“She said she’s proud of you.”
Emily’s smile became softer.
“Really?”
“Yes.”
“That part you could’ve led with.”
“Probably.”
Marcus closed the passenger door.
“All set.”
Emily took a breath.
Then she looked toward the old pickup Frank had arrived in.
“How are we getting both cars home?”
“I’ll drive the truck.”
“I drive the blue car?”
“That is generally how ownership works.”
“By myself?”