“The categories was hero” said Strudel. “I was gonna put you”

“Strudel” said Pearl. “Listen to me”

“What?” said Strudel.

“Yesterday after school” said Pearl. “The boy you beat up committed suicide”

Strudel said nothing.

“Strudel?” said Pearl. “Are you listening?”

“Oh my God” was all Strudel said.

“Their family is taking it to court” said Pearl.

“What?” said Strudel.

“Strudel, this is serious” said Pearl.  “Now would you please help me set the table for dinner?”

Strudel got up, and went downstairs with his mom, as he remembered art class the day before.

Tom had been talking to Safari Boy. “I’m going to homecoming with Pia!” Tom said.

“That’s so cool!” Safari Boy had replied.

“STRUDEL!” Pearl shouted.

“What?” Strudel snapped back to reality.

“Please get out the silverware” said Pearl.

“Hold that thought, Mom” said Strudel, as he raced out the front door.

“Strudel!” Pearl called. “Get back here!”

Strudel ignored his mom and headed down Navy.