I put the 349 back

I put the $3.49 back.

Picked up the cheaper one and stood there

longer than made sense. The cart.

The fluorescent glare.

I was twelve and I'd decided

that by now I'd have a plan —

a car, a couch. Things handled.

I'd understand.

My sneaker squeaked. I put the bottle

in the cart. The math I do

now without deciding.

The twelve-year-old who knew

exactly what this age would look like.