Small of power

“Mom, can you give me $100?” Josh asks.

“Oh course not. You know we don’t have that kind of money to throw around.”

“Mom, give me $100.” Josh says, this time as a command as opposed to a question.

Begrudgingly, his mom starts fishing threw her purse trying to scrounge up enough cash. “Put your shoes on, we have to go to the ATM. I only have $50.” She says.

“That’s fine. You will pay me the rest tomorrow.” Josh says.

“Okay.” His mom replies, obviously worried about the financial situation.

“Come on Josh, we are going to be late for school.” Melody says, motioning towards the door.

“We will be fine. Mom, drive us to school.” Josh said.

“Of course. But you know this will make me late for work.” She replies.

“That doesn’t really sound like my problem.” Josh says, abusing his new found powers and growing in confidence.

“Thanks for the ride Mom.” Melody says, trying to ease the tension in the car. “Are you worried about the science test on Friday, Josh?”

“Not at all. I’m going to tell Mrs. Summers to give me the answers before the test.” Josh says with a mischievous grin on his face.

“Isn’t that cheating?” Melody asks.

“It’s not really cheating if the teacher allows me to do it. Look at it like a loophole.” Josh says.

“Can you give me the answers then too?” Melody asks.

Josh thought for a moment before answering. He could command Melody to do whatever he wanted anyway. But would it be better to get her to do his wishes willingly instead? “I’m sure we can come to some sort of agreement.”

“I don’t like the sound of that.” His mom chimed in. “This conversation is starting to take a path that I don’t think you should continue down.”

“Mom, keep quiet while driving.” Josh said back.

Their mom just looked in the rear view mirror and shrugged in defeat.