Tough 4

-Charles, what am I going to do with you?

-There'e nothing wrong with me, Mom. I swear. I don't hurt anyone.

-Maybe I should have arranged boxing lessons for you.

-I've been reading the Bible and Biblical heroes were full of anger too, just like me. In fact, I have divine anger, not just anger. I'm trying to be good. I haven't punched anyone out in three years.

-A girl came over yesterday when you were sick.

-She's just a friend. She was worried because I didn't show up at school.

-I don't want any girls over.

-I understand. So what crime novel are you reading now?

-I don't remember the title. I read so many books just to get some sleep.

-Do you miss dad?

-I don't really want to talk about that. Charles, I have a questions for you and I want you to answer honestly. Do you drink?

-I only drank once just recently. I got sick. That's why I didn't go to school.

-Charles, why must you hurt me this this? (She begins to cry). Am I some evil woman who makes your life miserable and unbearable? Why must you always cause so much trouble? Have I....?

-Mom, I'm sorry. I just don't know what it is. I've just got this itch inside of me and no matter how much I scratch it, the itch doesn't go away. I've stopped punching people and I'm trying to get along with people. Alcohol somehow helps me get along with people. Maybe I just hate people and I don't know it. I'm sorry Mom. Please don't cry. I feel like I've brought the image of Dad back.

-Your Dad was a very kind and compassionate man, but once he started to fail at something, he became so angry and bad. He started to hate my success. Then, he started to hate me. He had to leave. You've been drinking for a while, haven't you?

-Ever since Dad left.