24 | Confrontation

◆ MILES ◆

My father pretty much dragged me by the collar out of the study room. My Pappa's idea of complete privacy pushed us past the thick hedges that led us into the quiet maze.

The sunset had dimmed the wide garden, especially the labyrinth. I kept up with his impatient pace. Why my father wanted to talk to me out here—I had no clue. But if it would give me the answers I needed to hear, then fine. My head no longer felt like I just came out of an invasive brain surgery, but my logic still craved for some clarification.

In apprehension, I blindly followed my father's rushed steps further into the dim maze. I pressed the back of my hand onto my nose. The smell of fertile soil, degrading leaves, dead pests and animal manure was just overwhelming.

Why exactly did he bring me here?

Right. Of course. To control the conversation and the situation. What else...

I ignored the lecturing voice in my mind and kept up a steady pace behind Pappa.

"You see?" My father turned to glance at me.