Sam responded, We have physical education together. Lizie is the only one who can run the mile without grumbling.
That made Lizie smile. She grabbed water, her hands trembled. She drank, filled her glass and drank again.
I took a look at Sam. Her cheeks were reddened. She watched me and challenged me to react.
I watched the food, then the girls. I counted again – less chicken, more rice, maybe nobody would notice.
The dinner was mostly quiet. Dan tried to fill the silence. “How’s algebra with you two?”
Sam rolled his eyes. “Dad. Nobody likes algebra, and no one talks about algebra at dinner.”
Lizie’s voice was quiet as she spoke. “I like it,” she said. “I like patterns.”
Sam grinned. “Yes, you are the only one in our class.”
Dan giggled to lighten the mood. I could have used you for my tax return last month, Lizie. Sam almost cost us the refund.
“Daddy!” groaned Sam and rolled his eyes.
After dinner, Lizie stood unsafe next to the sink. Sam gave her a banana. “You forgot the dessert, Liz.”
Lizie blinked. “Really? Are you sure?”
Sam put it in her hand. House Rule: No one leaves this house hungry. Ask my mother.
Lizie held the banana tightly and held her backpack even tighter. “Thank you,” she whispered as if she wasn’t sure she deserved it.
She lingered at the door for a moment and looked back. Dan nodded. “Come back anytime, dear.”
Her cheeks blushed. “Okay. If it doesn’t have any circumstances.”
“Never,” said Dan. “There is always room at the table.”
As soon as the door fell into the castle, my voice became sharper. Sam, you can’t just bring people home. We can hardly make ends meet.
Sam did not move. She didn’t eat all day, Mom. How could I have ignored that?
I stared at her. “That doesn’t mean…”
“She almost fainted, mama!” replied Sam. Your father works continuously. Last week they had their electricity cut off. We are not rich, but we can afford food.
Dan put his hand on Sam’s shoulder. “Are you serious, Sammie?”
She nodded. It’s bad, Dad. Today she has passed out in physical education. Teachers have told her to eat healthier, but she only eats lunch – and not even every day.
My anger went away. I sat down at the table, the room seemed to tilt slightly. I…I was afraid that dinner would last longer. And she’s just trying to get through the day… I’m sorry Sam. I should not have screamed.
Sam looked me in the eye, headstrong but gentle. “I told her to come back tomorrow.”
I breathed out relieved, defeated, but proud. “Okay. Bring her back.”
