Jinny sniffled and sighed, disappointed but not surprised. She knew she had to go, even if she didn’t like it. But one day maybe she wouldn’t have to. Uncle Slade was usually very blunt about things. He answered her questions for the most part, and didn’t talk to her like a child. She liked that. She may not have fully understood everything, but she didn’t like being treated like she was dumb because she was little. Like the teacher treated them.

While he spoke, she watched curiously as he cleaned the gun. She wanted to know how it fit together. So far she had taken apart and put together several things. Several of her toys, one of the TV remotes, a kitchen appliance that had been left out (she had gotten in trouble for that) – but the gun was new. She knew he wouldn’t let her touch it, but maybe she could figure out how it worked if she watched.

“His name is Wally and he’s fast. Like real fast. And he pushes people off the swings, and cuts in line, and he tripped me once but I kicked him back and the teachers don’t notice. I know I’m not supposed to tell on people but I told on him once and he lied about it and the teacher said to play nice!” Jin was fuming, her eyes going lighter and more silvery with each word. “I wish he’d go away! Boys are annoying.” She paused. “Well, you’re not annoying. But lots of boys are.” 

She stood up, eyeing his work with her usual curiosity. After a moment, she slowly dragged a chair over, stood on it, and watched more. “...Can I learn to do that? I want to help.”