The Case of the Mysterious Torn Book

I went to the library to return a few picks and grab some books my daughter and I had on hold. The librarian looks at me and says, “Did you know you have a fine?” News to me. She disappears into the back and reappears with a book whose cover is half missing. I knew instantly, Noah.

She tried to be kind. “Maybe a dog chewed it?”

“No, thank you, but that was my son.”

“You do not have a dog.”

“Oh, we do. He just does not dabble in literature.”

I explained that Noah has Down Syndrome and Autism, and tearing is his specialty. The librarian paused, vanished again, then returned, saying she waived the $5 fee. I appreciated her mercy, but honestly, I need a flex-spending card just for Noah-related incidents.

When I came home from the library, I found Noah stretched out on the couch, eating pizza, and happily watching television, completely guilt-free.