Paperthin Hymn

Chapter Seven

CHAPTER SEVEN

We had read seven volumes when Omma called us to come down for dinner. I was thankful for the interruption; it voice box felt like it was going to explode. She had gotten home at volume 3 and introduced herself to Lexi, then left us to read, looking rather smug. I hate it when she does that.

She already had the table set and the drinks fixed. I sat down, my mouth watering. I usually ate something after getting home from school. No time today, though.

Lexi sat down beside me. "This smells great," she exclaimed, inhaling deeply.

"Good!" Omma set down one more side dish and took her seat. "I hope you enjoy it."

Omma and I started piling side dishes onto our bowls of rice. I glanced at Lexi. She was having trouble with her chopsticks.

"You don't know how to use chopsticks?" I asked.

"Well...not really," she said quietly struggling to position her fingers.

I got up and went into the kitchen, bringing back a spoon. "Here," I said, holding it out to her.

She took it gratefully. "Thanks."

"No problem." As I sat back down Omma gave me an approving wink. I rolled my eyes.

"So Lexi," Omma asked. "How do you like Korea?"

"It's beautiful," Lexi replied. And so a generic newcomer conversation ensued. I didn't say much; just listened. I smirked though when Lexi got rice stuck on her face. Ten minutes later she still hadn't noticed.

Then the phone rang. Omma jumped up to get it in the kitchen.

"You're Omma is really nice," Lexi said, trying to scoop some bean sprouts with her spoon.

"Yeah, usually. She can get evil sometimes though." I picked some bean sprouts up and set them on her rice for her.

"Thanks." She shoveled it into her mouth.

"Seung-hyun," Omma said somberly, bringing the cordless phone with her. She held it out to me.

"Who is it?"

"Your Appa."

I stared at her, anger rising in me. She knew I didn't want to talk to him. What, did she think that just because Lexi was here I wouldn't get mad? I shook my head, looking away.

"Seung-hyun - "

"Omma." I shook my head.

She pursed her lips but put the phone to her ear. "Tae-woong? He...he can't come to the phone right now. Yes, I'll tell him. Bye."

I noticed Lexi looking at me quizzically, her spoon resting on her bottom lip. I ignored her and kept eating.

After dinner I walked Lexi back home. It was only about fifty yards to her house, but it seemed like the right thing to do.

She lifted the door mat and retrieved a house key. "When will Mrs. Hwang be home?" It was dark now, but there were street lights on so I could see her easily.

"Around eleven," she replied, fitting the key into the lock. The door swung open and she stepped inside. She turned to me. "So why didn't you want to talk to your dad?"

I was startled by her abruptness. "Um...well...I just haven't since the divorce."

"Why not?"

"I just don't." I needed to leave. Before she asked more questions. "Bye." I stepped off the porch.