Home Ec

For the first time ever, one of the popular boys has a crush on me. He’s a year older, and the girls from his grade gather around me. “You make such a cute couple,” they gush. Awkward, I try to pull the dress I made down over my thighs. My mom should have told me it was too short. My father just yells his head off till I run out of the house. Tonight, they’re out late at the neighbor’s, probably drinking themselves stupid. My new boyfriend and I stretch out on the old brown plastic sofa in the garage. Next to my collection of comic books and Nancy Drews. We’re totally dressed, but still. By the time I realize what’s going on, he’s done.

almost ripe plums
how to cut out
the sour spots