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Show 23 "That's ok, Daddy. I still love you. I know you didn't mean to lie." "But I did. I must have thought you were a little child that I could pass off with a nice story." Father pulled back from me a bit. "Your mother and I both have learned a bit from you this summer. You and Andrew." Father shook his head and then kissed me on the cheek. "I must get out to the hospital. I'll let you know as soon as I know. And it'll be the whole truth." He stood and walked to the door and then paused. He grinned at me and then winked. I blew him a kiss. I waited on the front porch all morning. Mother was practicing and left me alone. I waited, watching the sun on the ground and the flowers, the few cars that came down the street. The breeze came up mid-morning and waved through the yard. The rose bushes shimmered in the heat and light. Dogs barked once, twice. Voices from across the street. Mother stopped playing and went into the kitchen. I heard the water running and then her footsteps. "Annie, want some lemonade?" I shook my head. I waited. The telephone rang. I jumped up and ran to the door and pressed my forehead against the screen as Mother answered it. Then she turned to me and shook her head as she said, "Hello, Ruth." I went back and sat down. Mother hung up and went back to the piano. The telephone again. Mother answered it. I didn't move. "Annie, it's your father." The screen door banged behind me. "Annie?" Father's voice. "Honey, it's all right. Andrew is all right. His doctor said the operation was a success." I couldn't speak. I looked at Mother and she was smiling. "Annie?" Father again. "Are you there?" "Yes, Father. Thank you. When can I see him?" |
