Dear Anne,

I've received The Royal Summons. In other words, father wants to see me. I've dodged the issue over the last few days, I must oblige him. He's arranged my flight for me so I'm preparing to face the master. I'll leave on Thursday.

On the brighter side, my layover is the same as the outgoing journey. Will you see me if you're available? Dinner again? Please say yes. I'm dying to see you. I'm not sure, at this point, if I'll return to Paris. It's according to how things go with father.

He is extremely displeased with me to say the least. Well, it's my life and I'm over twenty-one. I can do as I please. Don't you agree, Dear Anne? Of course you do. I'm not some child he can order around—although I now feel as though I am a child again. I feel like a twelve-year-old who has broken curfew. Whoa is me!

I never know how to face Father. In my mind I know exactly how I'm going to confront him. I run dialogue through my mind. When I'm face to face with him, my tongue trips all over my mouth. All I can do is stammer and promise whatever he wants.

I'm determined to return to Paris. Believe me! I got away once. I'll get away again. In the meantime, I've paid two months rent to my landlord to keep the garret. It's the best I can do although I'm sure Father will object.

Will you support me, Anne? We can talk about it when we see each other. I hope you'll say yes to my layover. I want to spend more time with you. If I can get away, I plan on a longer layover on the way back. That way we can have a few days. Can you ask for time off work? I understand that might prove tricky since you just started at Macy's. They may not welcome a request for a day off after only two weeks. Please try, Anne.

I'm really looking forward to seeing you again.

Love

Your Distressed

Corey

XXX