#Chapter 26: The Amusement Park

Iris The amusement park is a riot of color and noise, families milling about and the sounds of game machines whirring through the air. Miles is perched on top of Arthur’s shoulders high above the crowd, his face is split in the widest grin I’ve ever seen. I can’t help but smile. As we make our way through the crowd, Miles points out a stuffed shark that catches his eye. It’s hanging over one of those gimmicky game booths where you have to hit the targets to win a prize. The game itself is likely rigged, but Arthur doesn’t hesitate to hand the booth attendant a few bills and pick up the rubber ball. Unsurprisingly, Arthur hits all of the targets in one go, winning Miles the stuffed shark. Miles clutches it to his chest, grinning from ear to ear. “Thank you, Daddy!” he beams. My stomach turns over at the sound of that word—Daddy—but I keep my expression neutral. Once again, I’m reminded of the lie I told Miles the other day. It’s been nagging at