Chapter 17 - WHAT LILY REMEMBERED
Lily’s school assignment asked students to write about a holiday they remembered.
She chose Christmas.
My stomach tightened when I saw the title.
THE CHRISTMAS WE LEFT.
Her essay was five paragraphs.
Simple.
Seven-year-old memory now written by an eight-year-old.
Grandma hit my mom because everyone was fighting.
Dad did not yell.
He told me to get my coat.
We slept in a motel.
The cinnamon rolls were good.
My favorite part was Dad said our home is where we are safe.
I stopped reading.
Emily finished for me.
Then Lily wrote.
Grandma said sorry later.
Now she asks before she hugs me.
I like that.
People can learn rules even if they are old.
I laughed through tears.
Mom asked to read the essay.
I let Lily decide.
She said yes.
Mom called afterward.
“I deserved every sentence.”
I almost corrected her.
Then didn’t.
She continued.
“The part about asking before I hug her.”
Her voice broke.
“I didn’t realize she noticed.”
“Kids notice everything.”
“I know that now.”
That Christmas, Mom asked Lily.
“Can I hug you?”
Lily said.
“You don’t have to ask every time anymore.”
Mom smiled.
“Can I ask sometimes?”
Lily rolled her eyes.
“Grandma.”
May you like
Normal irritation.
Maybe the greatest milestone of all.
