Chapter 15 Freedom

• Surely now that I think about it, it must have been to follow she's lifestyle, as Luis says. He must have done it to catch that daft dad who, when in his cups, claims that if it weren't for me, his life wouldn't be so wretched. What does he mean by that? He repeats it every time he drinks, and tells Mum as well, that they're together because of me. Mima says he had a lovely girlfriend whom he adored before Mum, and he can't fathom how he left her for Mum. Who could she be? Dad isn't bad, especially when Mum isn't around; he becomes more approachable without her presence.
• I recall that summer we spent with our grandparents; she was on a cruise and Dad was inseparable from me. I believe it was the only time I saw him truly laugh and be merry by my side. When she returned and saw me running to greet him because he was coming home from work, and he smothered me with kisses, she didn't take kindly to it. They argued a lot, locked in the study. After that day, she came up with the idea of sending me to that exceedingly strict school, and Dad didn't oppose it. He ceased playing with me and devoted all his time to work. I didn't like it at first, but then it became preferable to being at home. At least at school, they let me read all I wanted.
• And now, here I am, thinking these thoughts with an ice pack on my lips that has almost completely melted. I'm perched in front of the television, flicking through the channels, unable to find anything appealing. Suddenly, an advertisement for a new club flashes up, capturing my attention. I've never set foot in a place like that and muse to myself. What would it be like to go and sit without anyone hovering over you?