We continued on. The sun was up. The grass was still wet with dew. Clouds blotched the sky and by the time we got back to my house, the world was bright and cheerful. My crime was not going to be hidden away, I could see that.
My parents ran to me when they saw me and the man approaching. They’re going to hug me, I said to the man.
I expect so, he said.
Then they’re going to punish me.
I expect so, he said.
I waited as they ran. I did not run toward them. I had no urge to do so. I believe I loved my parents as much as any child loved their parents, but I also believe I was ready to break from them. It’s an inevitable part of life, of course, but also a sad part for both parties. The man patted me on the back, as if he understood. It felt like the first time someone had every understoo
