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“Call me when you can.”
“I will. Last night was a dream-come-true. One of the most beautiful nights of my life.”
“Of my life, too. Good luck with today. Enjoy your children. I know they love you deeply.”
“Thank you, sweetheart.”
He got dressed and left, hoping to sneak into his house before Royce got up.
To his surprise, his son sat in the kitchen, drinking freshly brewed coffee.
“Morning, Dad. Want coffee? I just made a pot.”
Taken aback by Royce’s calm offer, he nodded. “Sure.”
“I’ll fix you a cup. Do you still take cream and two sugars?”
Obviously his son wanted to talk.
He nodded. “Same as always.”
Royce handed him a cup and sat back in his chair.
“I want to let you know that yesterday I talked to the Dean of Admissions at U.C. They’ve examined my application, and the two-year transcript of my grades at Duke University.”
“When did you fill out an application?” Steve asked, both surprised and pleased.
“Two days after my return. They’ve transferred my Duke credits and have accepted me into third year. I’ve decided to register for a full slate of courses. Attending year round, I should be able to start my courses in July and graduate in a year and a half.”
Interested, Steve considered his son. At that moment, Royce reminded him of himself when he’d committed to his medical studies.
“Aren’t you tackling too much at a time? You haven’t studied in five years and may be rusty.”
“It’s the only way to succeed. Jump into the water and swim.”
For the first time in years, pride filled Steve’s heart for his prodigal son. “Great. Go for it.”
“What about lodging? I could save you a bundle by living in this house.”
“As soon as your siblings arrive, I’ll explain why you can’t stay here. Essentially, I’m renting this place as of June first.”
“No way.” His face mirrored his confusion. “But why?”
“You’ll get the details in a few hours.” Steve clapped him on the shoulder. “I’m glad you’ve taken the right steps to get your future on track. I know you’ll make me proud.”
“I will, and by the way, the feeling is mutual.”
Royce’s subtle smile warned him there was more to come. “What feeling?”
“I’m glad you’ve organized your future, and that it includes an amazing woman.”
“Ah…” Steve chuckled. Busted. “You approve?”
“I like her a lot. I always have. If only she could learn to be less…prim and starchy, especially with her clothing.”
“She has, son. You should see her when she’s dressed up to go out. She’s beautiful.”
“Seriously? Then I’m happy for you.” He pushed his chair and hugged his father. “By the way, don’t worry about me and Susan. There’s nothing between us. We both have specific academic goals to pursue.”
