However, I remained vigilant and carefully watched for any signs that Fred might be losing patience with Lukas. To my great relief, the boy still remained eager to visit and play checkers with his father. This evening as we headed toward Dr. Karr’s office, he skipped along the board sidewalk, his arms swinging to and fro as though he had not a care in the world. I was amazed at how quickly Lukas had seemingly set aside memories of his father’s abusive treatment. I assumed it was a testament to the child’s deep desire to win his father’s love. I prayed Fred wouldn’t do anything to destroy the boy’s blossoming trust. When Lukas reached the tailor’s shop, he turned around and waited for me to catch up. “Papa said he was going to teach me the game of chess. Do you know how to play, Mama?” “No, I don’t.” I grasped his hand. “I didn’t know your father played, either.” He bobbed his head and several brown curls fell across his forehead.
