Is that what they’re calling it nowadays?
“Just because I’m suspended, doesn’t mean I shouldn’t be studying. And he offered to give me a hand; I’m rubbish at Science.”
“What’s the project?”
“Something about planets. He’s, like, some kind of expert.”
“I can imagine…”
“Don’t you believe me?”
“What?”
“It’s like you’re making fun of me.”
“Me? No, of course not.” I straighten up and go back to chopping the carrots. “It’s okay. I mean, if you have to study… I hope he likes stew.”
“Are you cooking again?”
“Grandma is out late tonight, and Granddad is busy with work. I’m doing fuck all, so… Let’s just say that I have to earn my keep somehow.”
“Well said.”
I glance at her and she smiles.
My daughter.
Smiling.
At me.
“How are you feeling?” I ask her, suddenly.
It’s been two days since her outburst.
“Better.”
And things reallyhavebeen going better. She hasn’t insulted me or yelled at me for two whole days.
“You know, if you ever want to talk about it…”
“I know.”
“Okay.”
I go back to my carrots, and the pile of other vegetables waiting for me.
“What about you?”
“What about me?”
“How doyoufeel?”
“What do you mean?”
“I heard something.”
“What are you talking about?”
