Page 8 - Brave Bird at Wounded Knee - I Am America
P. 8

“As you wish, Miss Patricia Brave Bird Antoine,” Mom

              said with pretend formality. “But you’ll always be my baby.”
                 Patsy smiled despite  herself. “Speaking  of  babies,

              you’re going to need some new uniforms soon.”

                 Mom checked the  skirt of her  nurse’s dress, which

              stretched tightly over her growing belly. Patsy was getting a
              sibling in about four months. She hoped it would be a girl.

                 “I think I can alter a few of the ones I have.” Mom was

              always finding ways to save money. “Now I have to get to

              the hospital. And you have to get ready for school. Dad’s in
              the shower. See you tonight.”

                 Patsy  brushed her teeth,  combed her long hair, and

              picked an outfit—a new top with her favorite bell-bottom

              jeans. By the time she got to the kitchen, Dad was already
              packing his lunch.

                 “PB  and  J,  Pats?”  he  asked,  offering  her  the  peanut

              butter jar.

                 “Yep.” She wouldn’t eat tuna sandwiches. She hated
              mayonnaise.

                 “You want a ride today?” Dad asked.





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