For the second time in a row, I was forced to impose on the woman

with whom I carpooled to our children’s soccer practices. I phoned

and explained that my husband had the car again, so I wouldn’t be

able to take my turn.

A few minutes before she was due to pick up my son, my husband showed

up. Since it was too late for me to call and say I could drive after

all, I asked my husband to hide the car in the garage and to stay

inside. I also explained to my son that he shouldn’t mention anything

about his father’s whereabouts.

Unfortunately, my husband forgot and was in front of our house chatting

with a friend when my carpool partner arrived. When my son returned

from practice, I asked him if she had noticed.

“Yes,� he replied, “she asked me which of the two men in front of the

house was my father. But don’t worry. I told her I didn’t know.�