The pieces of my puzzle.

Thirty six.

(Azara's POV)

"So, you guys have this weekend off. We will test you in the air next week and then we're three months away from graduation. Well done everyone, I'll see you next week." I explained to the array of students sitting in front of me.

We only had two more months before the Top Gun program was completed and three months before their graduation, meanwhile finishing the final preparations for Bradly and I's wedding and the honeymoon after.

Needless to say, this was going to be a hectic few weeks ahead.

I started packing up the paperwork on my desk as the students slowly trickled out until it was just me left in the room. I haphazardly shoved a stack of papers into my desk drawer and shut it, eager to get home after a long day of teaching and being on my feet.

I picked up my backpack, checking if I had missed anything on my desk, when my phone rang, the cheery sound of my ringtone ringing out through the now empty classroom.

I pulled it out of my back pant pocket, smiling at the caller ID as I pressed it to my ear. "Hiya old timer." I greeted jokingly, a sly smirk set on my face.

I heard a sigh echo from the other side of the line. "Seriously Az? First Bradly now you?" My dad grumbled miserably.

I couldn't help but giggle at the sound of defeat in his voice as I grabbed the keys to my classroom, closing the door behind me and locking it.

"How are you today, my dearest father?" I teased, getting a chuckle in reply.

"That's better." He cleared his throat before playing along with the act. "I am quite alright thank you, and how are you my dearest daughter?"

I laughed at our silly antics as I unlocked my dark green Jeep, placing my backpack on the passenger seat as I got in on the other side. "I am good thanks. What's up?" I asked, referring to why he had called.

"What? Can't a father call his daughter just because he wants to?" Faux offense lacing his words.

I playfully rolled my eyes. "Not on a Friday night at 6:30 Pm when you're supposed to be on your weekly date with Penny." I replied, tucking a stray strand of dark hair out of my face that had come loose from its braid hanging over my shoulder.

"Ok. You caught me Captain. I was wondering if you and I could have a date night instead? You know, spend some good father daughter time?" He suggested,  his tone laced with hopefulness.

I smiled at his suggestion. "Yeah, that sounds great. What did you have in mind?" I asked, knowing he probably already had something planned even if I had said no, he probably would've persuaded me somehow.

"Umm......Its a surprise. Just dress casual." I could hear the smile in his voice at his mysteriously reply.

I raised a brow even though he couldn't see me. "Um..ok? Are yo-"

Before I could finish my sentence he cut me off. "Stop overthinking it, Az. Just be ready by 8:00. I'll pick you up."

I shook my head at his mention of my overthinking. He knew me too well.

"Ok, Ok. I'll see you then dad. Love you!" I bid goodbye.

"See ya, kiddo. Love you too!" And with that, the call ended with a click from the other end.

I started the car and headed home, getting dressed in a simple pair of sweats and a matching grey Top Gun hoodie with sneakers.