They got home around bedtime. Benjamin looked at the fox den as they passed but it was too dark to see anything.

He imagined the animals sound asleep in the hall, as he himself soon would be in preparation for the big day tomorrow. Once inside he exaggerated a long, drawn-out yawn and stretch and told his mom goodnight.

He lay in bed, his body tired but his mind wanting him to get up and start packing for the trip. Then it shifted to other things. What’ll I do if Mom won’t go to Aunt Louise’s? What if we get lost and can’t find our way back? His worries faded and he quickly fell asleep.

• • • • •

THERE WAS A KNOCK on his bedroom door. “Sweetie, are you awake?”

He tried to focus on the blurry red “8:33” on his alarm clock. “Yeah, I’m up.”

She opened the door and sat on the bed. “Honey, I just talked to Aunt Louise and she doesn’t sound too good.” Benjamin sat up. “Are you sure you’ll be okay if I leave you here for maybe one night?”

For just waking up he felt quite giddy, but he concealed it. “I’ll be fine, Mom. I can even cook for myself.” He laughed a little but not too much.

“Well…I guess you have your cell phone in case you need to get hold of me. I suppose I’ll head over there, then.”

“Okay, Mom. I hope Aunt Louise gets better soon.” But not too soon!

He ate breakfast quickly, trying to hurry his mom out the door. To his dismay she dragged her feet. He checked the clock every few minutes. They were waiting for him.

Carol looked for things to do before she left. “I should wash the dishes–”

“Mom, just go! I’ll do all that!” Benjamin was irritated and his mom looked surprised. “I mean, Aunt Louise needs you, not the dishes.” He laughed nervously.

She smiled. “You’re right, sweetie. I’d better go.” She got her bag and said goodbye. “Call me if you need anything. Your dad’ll probably call soon to check on you.”

“Okay. Tell Aunt Louise ‘hi’ for me.” They hugged. From the front window he watched her get in the car and drive away. I hope everything else will be this easy.

He grabbed his backpack off the couch and headed to the refrigerator. “Now what do pigs–well, pigs eat anything. What do goats eat?” He stuffed the pack with potato chips, vegetables, granola bars, PB&J sandwiches, and water bottles. That should do it. Then Benjamin remembered Paco’s request and threw in the box of beef sticks.