Me:
This is my home too, you know?
Why do I have to keep reminding people I belong here?
Willa:
What do you want me to do, Riles?
Me:
I want you to tell me how I’m going to get back on her good side. I need her to give me a job. Not a crappy job, a good one.
Willa:
Why? I thought you wantedto travel
Me:
I already did. I finished early. It’s a long story. And I traveled too. Now, I’m ready for something else. I want to work.
Me:
Even if I were to travel, I don’t have money to do so.
How do I explain to her that everything I told her I wanted—traveling the world and never coming back here—was a lie? Willa understands the staying away, with her psychology degree and all. She moved away and never looked back. I thought the same would work for me, but I realized the hollow feeling in my chest was not going to be filled with pretty views and new places.
So, I’m back here, where it all started.
Willa:
I don’t think there’s extra money anywhere.
Me:
I don’t want a handout. I want to work. She can hire me. We both know she’ll need counselors.
Do I think I have what it takes to be a counselor by myself? No. Am I willing to try? Yeah.
Willa:
Riles, you messed around there your whole life. Do you think you can handle a whole group of kids?
Me:
I’m great with kids!
Willa:
And give them responsibilities? And take responsibility for them?
Me:
You sound like Lilly.
Willa:
That’s not fair.
