(no subject)

[ferdie]

Ferdinand, I know you’ve been wondering where your permission slip for Paris is. We did receive it. However, we have some concerns. The last time we gave you permission to leave campus, you neglected to mention that the “school dance” was the Cotillion, Ferdinand. I’d like to think that was just a mistake on your part, but the fact that you went through your father instead of me makes me believe that it was far more intentional. Ferdinand, I'm not stupid. I know who goes to Cotillion dances. You did too, or you wouldn’t have bothered with the subterfuge. (You’re not very good at it, either, dear.) You must have known how many MACUSA officials would be there. I'm sure you think it's stupid, holding such a thing against you for just a dance. But it isn’t just a dance, Ferdinand. Ever since last year, you’ve been pulling away more and more. You were hardly home last summer. I didn’t get a chance to talk to you about whatever it was that happened last year. I know you must feel very adult with your head badge and your jobs. But the fact is, you’re our child. You’re still my child. I am allowed to have expectations of you. One of these is to limit your contact with people who want to put me into prison for telling the truth. The other is to tell me the truth. You know I value that more than anything. I know when you’re not telling it. I can't abide that. And I will not let you slip away from me this easily. Ferdie, I know this all must seem harsh. But it’s for your own safety, and it’s because I love you. I don’t want to lose my relationship with my only child, because of a girl, or a dance, or a job, or whatever it is at the moment. We’re a family. We’re all each other have. I think you need a reminder that will actually sink in. You’re coming home for Thanksgiving, Ferdie. It’s perfect. We can have time together as a family, we can cook a turkey, like we used to. We’ll catch up. There won’t be time for you to work. I’ll help you with your homework. I know you’ll miss Paris, but maybe we can go as your graduation present. Just you and me and your father. We’ll have a good time. I promise. Please send back a list of recipes that you’d like to make, all right? You can help. This is only because I love you. And I do love you. Please remember that. I'll see you soon. Love, Mom