10. Chae

I saw it. They were arguing about Sebby's education. 


It's hard to talk to Grandfather Park. He's either lecturing you, or screaming at you. No in-between. No switzerland.


They were screaming. My mother was trying to keep a level voice, she was trying to keep it low, with the family gathering going on outside. Grandfather Park has no boundaries. His voice, booming. I wished he was physically old and frail.


Mama was threatening to send Sebby to the Graysons if he kept on resisting. He said that suffering makes you strong. 


I felt overwhelmed, as though I was stressed, a ton of weight upon my shoulders. Mama's theos makes us feel emotions. 


"You're using your theos on me? Aren't you ashamed?"


Mama's eyes told me to get out.


I went to find Pa. Tae, too.


We came back. And Mama was already... He didn't say anything to us, just went outside and talked to some of the other elders.


Pa had to come out and announce the news. Everyone went home. 


Pa was so quiet. Never one to lose his temper. He looked so sad, like he had lost. Empty.