Page 49 (2/2)

Then, without warning, I’ picked up from behind and carried away

Uncle John

He turnsHeme away from the screens, away from the track

Away from my dad

I’, “No!”

I’ht him I have to be here I have to see that my dad is okay

Then, I hear the bang It’s so loud that it hurts h my headphones

Uncle John stops

He slowly turns with id

Fighting free, I look at the screens, and that’s when I see it

My dad’s car is gone

Replaced with flames And smoke

Thick black s up into the sky above

“I’M GOING TO MISS YOU SO MUCH, DARLING”

The e andwith tears

“I’hter

Leaning back, she takesI hate seeing her cry

“Are you absolutely sure you have to go?”

We’ve had this conversation a lot over the past feeeks I know I’ her—I hate that I aret it for the rest of my life

“Mu opportunity for me,” I say softly “I know you’re worried, but I’ll be fine I’ll be with Uncle John, and it’s not like I’ them”

“I know…” She sighs

It’s a worriso is hurting her for ely because of where I’ up painful memories for her

“I’ to hurt you,” I say softly “I just…I have to do this”

“I know” She kisses my forehead “You are so much like your father He would be so proud of you, you know”

Well, that just sets me off, and a tear spills down my cheek

Mu a silly clucky o”