Malia scratches her neck
while we walk back up.
You know, I think I’m
going to try going back to school.
I stop.
Don’t look so surprised.
I can’t stay home forever.
She scratches her arm,
and I notice her eye
just a bit puffed out.
It’s okay, Etan, my mom always
says one day at a time,
and I think I finally believe her.
I can do it.
I really can,
and besides …
We keep walking.
Besides what? I say.
She looks at me, rolls her eyes.
I have at least one friend now.