Why do you look so glum?

Why do you look so glum?

Have you been fighting with mom again?

At least you're in a good mood, Kim. And no, I didn't have a fight with your mother.

Are you comfortable in the new apartment?

I'm fine here, dad. Don't worry about me.

Of course, the house was better, and the school, and everything.

But I'll be fine, Dad. You've got enough to worry about.

And people here don't talk to me and look at me funny.

I'm okay. But what about you?

Are you sure? Is there anything I can do to make you feel more comfortable here?

Well...

Tell me, Kim. What do you want?

I'd really like a pet.

You want a dog?

You want a cat?

No, no, not that big. More like small and cute.

A hamster?

A guinea pig?

Dad! I'm not a baby anymore.

I'd like a rat!

How disgusting!

How original!

You've known I was different from other girls for a while, right, Dad?

That's not true at all! Rats are inherently clean animals.

Rats are really cool animals. Social, smart, affectionate. A lot of people are prejudiced, that's all.

Please Dad! I want it so much!

Well, at least it's not a dog. But where am I going to get a rat?

You don't exactly get them at the pet store, do you?

I think I saw one behind the washing machine once.

Excuse me? Rats? In our laundry room?

I think so. Why don't you take a look!

You bet I will! And if I find one that doesn't bite me right away, you can have it.

Thanks, Pops! That really means a lot to me.

I feel really misunderstood and alone sometimes.

Do you want a dog? I'm not sure if your mother would agree...

Do you want a cat? Honey, we've talked about this. In the middle of the city and without our old garden...

Should I try to get a hamster? That won't be easy, but...

A colleague's daughter had a guinea pig. They're supposed to be cute...

A rat? But, honey, rats are nasty. And they carry dangerous diseases!

You really are an unusual girl, Kim.