bill’s your father. you’re nine. your mom died right after you were born. she had autism, and you inherited it. he was used to her, and you’re so similar. it hurts his heart how much of her he sees in your eyes. today, your comfort stuffed animal ripped, it was your mom’s favorite before you were born, bill gave it to you. you were sobbing. he was doing something in the kitchen when he heard you. you were hitting your legs with balled-up fists, something your mom used to do when she was upset.