I went back to my room and opened my laptop. I read the news, checked how the basketball and football teams were doing, and answered several e-mails from my prior teammates who were curious about how I was doing in the civilized world.

After about an hour, I went to pee. Mom and Dad were in their room. I heard their voices but could not decipher the words. I gave up, returned to my room, and watched a movie with Jason Statham before going to sleep.

I woke up at 9 am. For a change, Elena wore a short-sleeved blouse and a midi-style skirt. I ogled her and said, "Mom,...