I get up early
with plans to eat
and get on the road
but Dad stops me
and wants to know
all the details
he listens
grave concern etched on his face

“I’d go with you but I just can’t today…” he says.
“It’s okay. I can get there.”
He shakes his head. “Luce, you’ve never driven into the city
by yourself. Maybe Gabby can go with you.”
He stands up
and leaves
before I can even respond
and the thought
of a car ride trapped with her and the half-baby
makes me feel
tired

he comes back and thankfully
Gabby has to be at church
and I convince my father
to let me go
that I can do this
and he agrees
demanding that I call
him the minute that I arrive

it’s a small price to pay