[ 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 ]	Elena took the book without looking at the cover and put it in her backpack. “You know,” she continued, “if you ever want recommendations on books and things, I’m always happy to do that.” Elena nodded, giving out a quiet, “Thanks.” She looked up at her teacher, her eyes asking if she could go. But Mrs. Malarkey wasn’t finished. “Are you going to the funeral?” “No. Unless my mom makes me.” “Why not?” “Because I never knew the guy. Why would I feel the need to honor his memory?” Mrs. Malarkey looked Elena and replied, “Because the man who gave you life, is gone.” Elena didn’t seem convinced, so she tried another angle. “Because your mother needs you.” . . . . Rob was waiting for me when I got out of school. “Finally,” he said exasperated, “I’m fiending for a cigarette.” We darted down the street and into the alley, walking east towards downtown. He didn’t ask why Mrs. Malarkey wanted to see me after class, and I didn’t feel like telling him. “Rob, can I ask you something?” “Shoot,” he replied, exhaling the smoke through his nostrils. “Do you think I should go to my father’s funeral?” He shrugged, like it wasn’t his place to say anything. “Well, would you go to your father’s funeral?” I asked, flicking my cigarette butt into a gangway.