The Parent
by Rob Morris
I won't get up this time."

"He needs care. That's not my problem."

"I'm 10 years old, and verging on a nervous breakdown from exhaustion."

"They won't hold me. Punishment for my attitude. I guess not thanking them for acting like they do is attitude."

"Uncle Jim tried to intervene, but it only made things worse. They wrecked the house. I was a week cleaning up."

"Its not fair. I can't play. I can't kiss a girl. I can't sleep regular, for all the nightmares. Who's the kid here?"

"I won't get up this time."

"But my baby is crying."