"I just can't stand him!"

"Now Heather, he IS your father. Have a little respect. Things are hard for him right now; just try to keep the peace," her mother replied from 1100 miles away.

"When are you coming home?" Heather whined.

"Not until the end of the month. It's a great opportunity for me and we need the money right now. And to be brutally honest, young lady, I don't need the added stress."

"He won't let me do ANYTHING!" Heather continued.

"Then stop screwing up and get in his good graces. I don't have time for this right now honey. Just listen to your father for once, and...