Dad in the background.
“Give me the phone.”
A moment later, his voice filled my ear.
“Listen carefully, boy.”
I stood straighter without meaning to.
“You’re old enough to figure out a simple trip home. So figure it out.”
“Dad, I don’t know what train to take.”
“Then ask somebody.”
“I don’t have enough money.”
“Not my problem.”
I could hear Claire laughing somewhere behind him.
My eyes burned.
“Dad, please. Can you come get me?”
He gave a disgusted snort.
“That’s exactly what’s wrong with you. Always begging someone else to solve your problems.”
Then he delivered the words that changed everything.
“Find your own way home, Ethan. Or don’t come home at all.”
The connection ended.
I stood motionless, holding the receiver against my ear.
For several seconds, I listened to the empty line.
Then slowly, I placed the phone back on its hook.
I didn’t call again.
