Second Childhood

Marco picked up his son and took him away from the wail-filled bedroom, so his wife could take care of her father. Over the last months the old man had deteriorated; by now he was so confused he could hardly speak, and threw tantrums like a toddler.

His little grandson at the same time had grown quiet, watching with wide eyes.

The boy knew his parents thought his grandfather’s behaviour disturbed him. That was all right.

He also knew quite soon they would be thrilled with how smart he would turn out.

The same had happened a lifetime ago.