Lauren took a deep breath, a sip of wine, and opened the list she’d started three years ago now. She’d updated it a dozen or more times, this path for her life, when she had felt a little lost and uncertain, when she wanted to reassure herself, when she felt lonely or unsure . . . or just when she wanted to feel close to her father. Some of the things on the list were to be expected, some were a little silly, and some were completely sincere.

THINGS TO DO IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS

1. Get your dream job.
2. Find a great apartment.
3. Make a difference in the community.
4. Have little kids run up to you because they adore you.
5. Do something that would make Jen proud.
6. Buy and wear a really fancy dress to a significant event.
7. Meet the man you’ll marry.

She started typing.