I didn't really like my dad, but...

#nana56b


Lines from the story

On my way home from school, I fell off my
bike for the first time in ages.

I should have known better—the rain made it
slippery...

But I let my guard down.

Frustration with myself mixed with sheer
embarrassment,

and my vision blurred with tears.

Pedaling home, I cried into the phone while
calling my boyfriend.

I had to, or I felt like I might break down
completely...

When I got home, my dad happened to be there.

I don't really like my dad.

He always barges into family conversations
and complicates things.

Even when he offers an opinion, he acts like
he's always right. So condescending.

He's harsh with my mom...

But I guess our family relationship was
decent overall.

He yelled at me a lot, but I somehow knew he
cared about his daughter.


When I said, “I'm home. I fell,” and showed
him my bleeding hands and feet,

Dad got angry, as expected, but...

He said, “Stay right there!” grabbed his car
keys, and rushed out.

Dad never acted this quickly for the family,
so I was a little surprised.

I sat quietly, watching his retreating back.

A little while later, Dad came back. He was
holding disinfectant.

He must have gone to the pharmacy near our
house.

Then, muttering things like, “Girls getting
hurt...” he treated my wounds.

I managed to say, “I'm sorry. Thank you.”

My favorite show was at just the right part,
and he never usually does anything for me,
always just thinking about himself.

After that, he scolded me badly, but I'm truly
grateful.

Even the sting of the disinfectant on my
wound felt a little precious.

Today's event made me think,
“I'm glad I noticed Dad's kindness.”