Well, theres been a…development. He paused. Theres really no good way to say this. Dad… He trailed off.

She frowned, her worry rising. What is it, Greg? Did something happen?

Greg cleared his throat. He has lung cancer, Harley. Its terminal.

The words hit her like a physical blow. She set the wine down and sank into the bed, covering her mouth with a trembling hand. She must have misheard him. There was no way he could be telling her their father was dying.

What are you saying, Greg? she asked in a low, detached voice.

Im saying he wants to see you.

She took a long breath. See me? I just got back. Im in Boston.

Theres not much time left, Harley. The doctors hoping hell last the month, but between you and me, it sounds like he could clock out any day now. You dont want to live the rest of your life wishing youd said something.

Harley smiled weakly. Has that ever been my problem?

Most of the time? No. But in this case… He sighed. Look, I know you two havent always seen eye-to-eye, but if you dont come now, you might not get another chance. Things can change quickly.

Yes, they can, Harley thought, cradling her forehead in her hand. Her whole life, it seemed, had changed in the blink of an eye: her career, her marriage, and now her family. What was next?

Harley?

She swallowed hard, dreading what was to come. The last time shed talked with her dad had been on his birthday, a month earlier. Hed asked why she didnt reach out more often, shed said something about how she didnt appreciate his tendency to offer his opinion on every facet of her life, and theyd been off to the races, the argument escalating to a shouting match until Harley finally hung up on him.

Now, faced with the prospect of talking with him again, she was afraid they might pick up where theyd left off. Still, if he was dying…

Okay, Greg, she said. Ill see what I can do.

Greg sounded relieved. Thank you. Sure youre okay?

She felt like she had just gone twelve rounds in a boxing ring. The news about her father was another body blow, leaving her breathless and unsteady on her feet. Still, she tried to be optimistic.

Just tired, she answered. Got back from the airport less than an hour ago.

Thatll do it, he said, but he didnt sound convinced. Please, get here as soon as you can.

Okay.

Now there was a smile in his voice. Im looking forward to seeing you, sis. Its been too long.