In recent months, George’s health had declined, and he had begun becoming confused more often.
One day, he had left his house, walked for a long time, and then could no longer remember where he lived.
Emily had found him sitting alone on a bench.
At first, she had simply asked whether he needed help.
George had refused.
The next day, he was there again.
Then again.
Emily began bringing him water and food.
I was still angry.
“You skipped school for this?”
Emily looked up at me.
“At first, I only came after classes.”
“And then?”
She fell silent.
George spoke.
“It was because of me, sir.”
I looked at him.
He explained that one morning, he had become especially confused.
He could not remember his address or any phone number.
He could only remember his own name.
Emily had been afraid to leave him there alone.
So she didn’t go to school.