I'm... I'm okay, Mom, really. It's no big deal, I promise. I can figure my way around! [ the smile is sweet and honest, the kind that says please don't worry about me more than it says i can take care of myself; jade's never been good at letting someone see she was anything but okay. it's been a problem from day one, when she came home from school and knew she was the "poor kid."

there's no resentment, though, just genuine love and a hope that she won't be a burden. ]

And I'll call and see about an eye exam, I think that they might have to make it for tomorrow but one day without them won't be so bad!