I spoke too soon. Mother didn’t say she was going to punish me at Christmas which has already passed but Summer break. Now it’s summer break, looks like I am going to get punished after all.

“Jade, your father hasn’t got all day. Get down here, it’s your punishment, don't you remember!” she called from downstairs. 

“Yes, I am coming down. Just wait a second now.” I said, frowning.

I arrived downstairs, and father stood up pointing to my chest then said, “Jade, you are being punished due to your behaviour and language.”

But, I haven’t,” I argued

“Shush Jade, your behaviour is very unladylike. I see that you want to argue. Your punishment will be to not be able to speak to your fellow friend, Willow. Uh, now don’t say anything but please head up to your room and stay there,” he calmly stated, cutting me off. 

I was about to shout at him and I had a feeling of punching him. I clenched my fist, stood there, and finally stomped my way up the stairs. Not being able to talk to Willow, that’s ridiculous! The feeling of punching my father became stronger every minute. However, if I do that, I will get the most terrible punishment, it may even be a physical punishment. There is no point, it is too risky. Not talking to Willow, that certain phrase already breaks my heart. Now he would stop me from even writing letters to her. 

The doorbell rang, and I ran down the stairs hoping to see Willow. But no, it was a postman. Oh, wait a second, not any postman, but a postman with a letter for me. My father took it and slowly ripped it open. I creeped up behind him, trying to read the words. But that was unnecessary, he pushed me away with fury. 

He looked at me and sighed, “Jade, this letter seems to stop your punishment. It seems like Willow and her family would like to come for 2 weeks. And, it would be disrespectful if I say no. Furthermore, if they come and you are noticed not talking to Willow that will also be very rude. So, this was a very big decision but your punishment won’t be happening from now on. They will be coming tomorrow morning but I don’t want any talk about murder. Yes, this does mean you can talk with Willow about everything except your most gruesome crimes.”

“Oh, I can’t thank you enough. Two weeks, how exciting. Best of all, my punishment no longer exists. But no talk about murder, I will be fine with it but I don’t think Willow will, so?” I asked

“So, you will teach her how to behave like a Lady,” he exclaimed

Father was now speaking English to me because he wanted me to be the best in school. Night had arrived, the moon shone bright in the sky. I am ready for the next morning.