Liv’s POV

The tea had barely cooled in my cup when my phone buzzed again. This time, the name on the screen made my heart ache.

“Dad,” I murmured, picking up immediately.

“Liv,” his familiar, warm voice greeted me. It felt like a blanket of comfort wrapped around my frazzled nerves.

“Hi, Dad,” I said, the tightness in my chest loosening a fraction.

“How are you, sweetheart?” he asked, concern lacing his tone. “I’ve been worried about you.”

“I’m fine,” I lied, forcing a smile even though he couldn’t see it. “Really, I am.”

There was a pause, and then his voice softened. “That’s good to hear. When are you...