Driving in silence the rest of the way home, I pondered how things ended up so complicated. Carefully, I obeyed the speed limit to avoid drawing attention. More of Helen’s antics, that’s how. I skillfully glided around potholes so I didn’t cause Helen more pain than she had already experienced. Although, she might deserve the punishment after pulling the window stunt.
When I arrived at my house, I assumed the same position at the end of the blanket as before, as did Bryce and Rita. “This time, I will count!” I demanded. “We move AFTER I say three! One, two, three.”
With Bryce and Rita’s help, I slid Helen out far enough to help her safely get to her feet without falling.
Helen slowly waddled to the house and teetered up the stairs — each move she made deliberate and sluggish. Limping
