His Smart Little Boy

About twenty-four years ago…

Clad in a pinstripe business suit, Lawrence Park came down the stairs with a young seven-year-old boy, holding his small hand in his as they headed towards the living room. "Make sure you attend your classes at the dojo later. Do you understand?" The little boy bit his bottom lip and did not look at his father. "Damien Maverick Park, you answer when I'm talking to you."

"But I have piano lessons later…" His little voice sounded meek as though he already knew what his father would say.

Lawrence sighed, rubbing his forehead as he bent down to his son's level. He stared at him for a long time as if he was looking for something he couldn't see. There was a desolation in the father's eyes, something that Damien couldn't understand whenever his father looked at him. Did he make his father sad?

"Fine. Just today. I'll call your sensei and tell him you'll attend tomorrow's class instead. Happy now?"