Chapter 63. The Ripples

Amanda's call delivered a somber reality—I needed to be in Arizona to attend to Pier's final arrangements. Swiftly, I booked a flight, recognizing the fleeting window of my first trimester that allowed air travel. In contrast to previous journeys, this time, I packed a single bag and awaited my flight, the gravity of the situation settling in.

Before embarking on this unexpected journey, I knew I had to inform my father of the change in plans. "Hi, pa," I greeted him over the phone. "Regarding the dinner tonight and the plans for tomorrow and the next day, I think I'll have to cancel. I have to go back to the US to handle some important stuff," I explained.

Concern laced his response, "Is everything okay, buttercup? You've been canceling our plans since last week. I've never seen you even for once since you came back here."

"I'm sorry, but I promise to be back before Christmas. I'll buy Rieslings