Chapter 17

CHAPTER 17 WALNUT CREEK, TENNESSEE PRESENT DAY With the long day and long summer now behind him, Michael was glad to finally be back in his own room and his own bed. Like always, he prayed with his parents before bedtime. "Thank you, God, for an awesome summer. Thank you for all the fun I had with Dad and Justin, thank you for keeping us safe, and thank you especially that I didn't stay lost in that cave. Amen."

his mom shouted. "Lost in a cave?" "Yeah..." His dad said. "I've been meaning to talk with you about that. Michael, you want to tell your mom what happened?" "Okay. Justin and I were exploring a cave and got a little bit lost, but eventually we found our way out. Dad told me to never do that again, but I didn't listen. I went back in later by myself and got a whole lot lost when my flashlight broke." Mrs. Gomez went pale. "You were by yourself in a cave with no flashlight?" "It's okay, Mom. I'm fine now."

"Michael, you know that when we ask you to do something or to not do something, it's for your own good, right?" Dr. Gomez said. "The Bible tells us that honoring your father and mother is the first commandment with a promise. When you do, things will go well for you and you will live longer." "Yeah, I get the 'live longer' part now," Michael said. "Look, buddy. We're older and have a lot more experience with life, which makes us a little wiser than you. We love you and want what's best for you." Dr. Gomez ruffled Michael's hair. "Thanks, Dad," Michael said. "I love you guys, too." "By the way, what was so important that you needed to go back into that cave for it?" Mrs. Gomez asked. "Meow!" Mr. Nemesis, Jane's cat, said from across the room. He was scratching at Michael's backpack.

Michael jumped out of bed. "Get off that!" he yelled, chasing Mr. Nemesis out of the room. "C'mon, back in bed," Dr. Gomez said. "We've all got school in the morning. No time for chasing cats around." Michael crawled back into bed. His mom and dad kissed him on the head. Dr. Gomez turned off the light. Just before closing the door, he said, "By the way, you're grounded for a week." "Dad!" Michael complained. "Good night, Cookies!" Mrs. Gomez said. "Don't call me that!" Michael double-complained.

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