Chapter 5: …I snapped open the case and kissed his picture
When the alarm clock rang. I rolled over and looked at the time. It was six o’clock. Bob was probably boarding the bus for camp right now.
The necklace was on the night table. I held it in the palm of my hand, snapped open the case and kissed his picture.
“Good morning…. darling.” I breathed.
I sat up, scratched my head and back a few strokes, slipped into my robe and slippers and headed for the bathroom.
“Not so fast,” my father growled.
I had an idea what was about to happen. I turned around and smiled, hoping it would change his demeanor.
“Since when did I give you permission to stay out to all hours of the morning? Your mother wanted to call the police. She was sure you were in an accident, but I knew better. I know Bob. I know all about his dates and the girls he takes out. You are not a Penny Parker! She’s been around the block a few times and knows all the tricks of the trade…..and all the men know it….but you don’t. You’re looking for trouble! One slip up and you’ll find yourself pregnant. Then what?….Have you thought of the consequences? Have you thought of the shame you would bring to this family….and yourself? Who do you think would ever marry you or even associate with you or your illegitimate child?….No, of course you haven’t thought of that! After being carried away with the passion of the moment, you‘ll discover you‘ve learned your lesson too late. Just bear in mind….as long as you live under my roof, you will do as I say!”
Without warning, he raised his hand, slapped me across the face and walked out the door — slamming it behind him.
Mom was standing in the bedroom doorway. ‘Not a good way to start the day. You look awful! You’ll probably have a black eye… “
“A black eye?….That will take at least a week to heal. Everyone will want to know what happened….”
read more of chapter five tomorrow…
