Jackson didn't notice the sedan. Neither did Melissa. By the time they had finished clearing the dinner dishes, the car was already several blocks away. Sue was rinsing plates at the sink while Ethan sat at the counter, proudly explaining how he had managed to score the winning goal during recess. "...and then Michael tripped over his own shoelaces," Ethan said dramatically, waving his hands. "Nobody touched him. He just... boom!" Everyone laughed. "Did you laugh at him?" Melissa asked. Ethan shook his head immediately. "No." Jackson raised an eyebrow. "Really?" "...Maybe a little." Sue playfully nudged the back of Ethan's head. "Be nice." "I was!" Melissa smiled. "What happened after he fell?" "I helped him up." Melissa's smile grew wider. "See? That's the Ethan I know.

