"We do all kinds of things together, Ava," Henry says, a touch defensive. "He taught me how to fly... he took me to different planets... he's been an amazing father. And I know he loves me."

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"I'm not saying that he wasn't a good dad, Henry; that's not it at all." says Avalon gently, his expression sheepish. "I'm just not communicating well, I'm sorry. I really hate it when I do this."

Avalon tried to not get too distressed, and he takes a long deep breath before he says "All I'm saying is that because of the whole saving the universe thing that we all do, your dad is gone a lot. And that sucks. That's what I'm saying. And I wish that he could have been able to be around more. Because he does love you. It's almost overwhelming for me when he looks at you."

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Henry shrugs. "He was saving the universe... doing his job. I can't be upset at him for that, you know?"

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"Yea, but it can still suck." replies Avalon softly. He gives Henry a little half-hug and then offers to hold the glasses while Henry pours the milkshakes.

Avalon decides then to change the subject, just to keep from making Henry uncomfortable.

"Have you thought about what you're going to want to do when we graduate?" he then suddenly asks. "Someone asked me that Friday in class and struck me dumb. I have no idea what we're even supposed to do."

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"College," Henry replies, somewhat relieved to be off the topic... but still feeling closer to Avalon for having opened up to him. "I don't know which ones I want to apply for yet. Maybe up in Star City -- they've got a decent university, and it's not far from here... and Keith's there, too."

He shrugs. "Dad's talked a little about the Air Force as a possibility, but I don't think I'd do well in there. Not really a military guy myself."

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"Considering that I will be going wherever you go, I'd also rather not go back to the military either." replies Avalon with a crinkle to his nose. "Although Star City might be cool. I know Keith is a good friend of yours."

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Henry ponders. "I definitely want to stick close to Coast City. Not just because of Dad, but, well, particularly now with Josh in the picture. He's a year behind us." He shrugs. "There's also Berkley, or San Francisco, or even Santa Cruz... but I also don't even know what I want to do when I'm done."

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"Well, all things considered.. Do we have to go off immediately? It'd be nice if we could stick around and wait for Josh and then go off.. wherever." says Avalon.

When he's offered a shake, Avalon grins widely and immediately takes a big swig. "Ohmygoshthisissogoodthankyou." he says in a rush.

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Henry smiles, reaching out and ruffling Ava's hair. "Thanks. Glad you like it." He shrugs. "I... don't think Dad would approve of me just hanging out and slacking for a year. No, I'd need to either find a job, or go to school. And there aren't any colleges in Coast City, and very few jobs."

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