There was a brief pause filled with the kind of dramatic weight that only a father who knew he was about to deliver life-changing news could create.
"But today - today of all days, son - he literally sent word that he has accepted. That he is going to come. That he will be there at your wedding."
Richard sat up straighter in his seat without even realizing he was doing it.
"Father—"
"Can you even imagine?" his father continued, his voice now carrying the full, unrestrained joy of a man whose greatest hope had just been realized.
"Can you even begin to comprehend the excitement and the absolute joy that I felt the moment I received that confirmation? The joy that is literally running through every part of my body right now as I'm speaking to you? I cannot even properly describe it to you in words."
His laughter came through the phone - warm, genuine, and overflowing with pride and happiness.
