Jim carried the last box into the room. “Sheesh, Claire. Did you pack enough stuff?”
“I need all of this! I am at college now.”
“So, college girls need their teddy bears?” Jim teased, picking up the bear lying on top of the boxes.
“Dad!” Claire embarrassedly grabbed the bear and stuffed it in a box. “There are guys around. I don’t want them to see Clunkers!”
“Okay, Claires…” Jim pauses, looking around the room. “I guess that’s it. I have to start heading home.”
“Now?” Claire’s voice was sad, even though she was trying to remain strong.
“It’s a five hour drive,” Jim’s voice was breaking. “I mean, you could have gone to college in Scranton, but no, you had to go to big, fancy art school in New York.” Jim’s joke fell flat as he saw his daughter’s face. “It’ll be okay, Care Bear. I promise. You will do great, and we will visit you so much you will see us more now than you did at home.” Jim pulls her in close for a hug. “I promise, Claire. I promise.” Jim kisses the top of her head before leaving. “Bye, Claires.”