Seventeenth Lotus

[spandexisyouth]

I would like to apologize for my son's behavior and writings. I do not remember much about being a father and I think that is apparent.

Stoneface, Bridge, I would like to take a few days off if that is not a problem. I think I would like to have a few days to myself.

Comments

[grab_my_bells]

And I'll try for no more books in the cabinets or bathroom or diningroom table.

Whether you get off work or not, take as much time as you need, Youth. I can ask the man-twins or my brother if I could stay with them a few days? Would you and the kid prefer that?

[spandexisyouth]

Thank you.

No. I would not prefer that. I did not disappoint you.

[grab_my_bells]

Sure.

If you're sure. Disappoint?

[spandexisyouth]

I'm very sure. I want you around. Justice and Stoneface. And possibly others. I am not a good father.

[grab_my_bells]

Then I'll be around. I know it doesn't mean much from me, but I'd want you as a dad. You're kind and steadfast and admirable and

You're a single, first-time parent, and you just got handed a kid in possibly the worst age-range imaginable. I don't think anyone knows what to do with a teenager. And then you have me in the house making it all worse.

You're doing fine with what you've been handed.

[spandexisyouth]

Thank you.

It means a great deal. Especially all of those words.

Leaving the books around did make it worse, but I know that you did not intend to. Having you in the house makes things better, though.

Thank you, Bell. I am not sure that I am. But I will keep trying.

SEXY GLASSES!

[grab_my_bells]

Sure thing.

You're a good man, Youth. Don't forget that. Good men make good fathers, even if they do have their share of pitfalls too.

Now that's a lie. Think how easy it would be for you and the kid without me.

Thank me when I've actually done something. And as long as you're trying, you're being you. That's what counts.

Yes!

[spandexisyouth]

I will try to remember that.

Simple, certainly. But it would not be easy. I would miss you. That would make it hard.

You are writing with me and comforting me. That is doing. That counts as well. I will thank you when you help me and when you deserve it.

[grab_my_bells]

Good.

I meant if you didn't know me, if there was nothing to miss.

You don't have to thank me for trying to keep you happy.

[spandexisyouth]

But I do know you. So there is much to miss. And I am happy to know you.

All right. But I can still be glad of it.