Page 58 of The Sailor Situation

Don't give up (very important)

"I underlined that last one twice," Danny says, pointing. "Because you gave up really fast."

"But she wants nothing to do with me."

Danny waves a hand. "In the movies, they always say that but they don't mean it. That's the rule."

Another section is titled:APOLOGY IDEAS

Apologize while explaining what you did wrong and why it was wrong (shows you understand)

Apologize while it's raining (see: rain section)

Apologize at the airport (see: airport section)

Apologize with grand gesture that proves you listened to them (not just expensive but meaningful)

Write a letter if they won't see you in person but only if you have nice handwriting

"Blair!" John calls from downstairs. "We should get going if you want to make your flight window."

"Coming!" I call back, then turn to Danny. "I have to go. Thank you. This is... really insightful, Danny. I’ll read all of it as soon as I get home." I smile and ruffle his hair gently, careful to avoid the healing wound. "I’ll see you soon. I love you."

"I love you too." He stands up and throws his arms around my waist in a fierce hug.

I hold him tight for a moment, grateful beyond words that he's okay, that he's here, that I get to have these absurd and wonderful conversations with him.

Downstairs, John is waiting by the front door. He's wearing his usual weekend uniform—faded jeans and a flannel shirt dusted with sawdust from whatever project he's been working on.

"Ready?" he asks.

"Yeah. Thanks for everything, John. For being here for Mom and Danny, for?—"