Padawan

While boarding her flight, Ashley was flashed the peace sign by a toddler.

Peace sign right back at ya, young padawan.

Ashley’s father always used the phrase young padawan to describe her. While some fathers might use daughter, or young grasshopper, or simply my kid, Ashley’s dad referenced Star Wars every time he was speaking to her or about her.

This toddler merely looked confused.

Her dad’s drawl greeted her upon touchdown.

“Young padawan, what’s the plan?”

(Always: what’s the plan. Not: what’s up? What’s happening?)

This time he meant it as: What’s the hold up?

“The plan is to come home.”

She wasn’t at a dingy airport, fresh off a flight for nothing. Now out of quarters to feed the pay phone, Ashley walked out into the tranquil summer air.

Young padawan was back.

She was home.