It was raining heavily that night.
Emily had called earlier to ask whether I would be free for Sunday dinner.
“Dad, don’t tell me you’re working again,” she had joked.
“I haven’t checked my schedule.”
“You always say that.”
I laughed.
“And you always complain.”
“Because somebody has to look after you, old man.”
Those were among the last words I ever heard her say.
Hours later, another call came.