Bisson_rucker_billys.. - Rudy Rucker

“Nothing,” said Billy. “We got out early.”
He took the plant to his room and put it on his desk.
“You can’t say fuck in school,” he said. “Even a plant should know that.”
“I can say anything I want to,” said the plant. “I’m a plant.”
Billy thought about that.
“Water,” said the plant.
Billy gave it some water and went out to play. He was glad to be home from school.
§§
That night Billy’s father was reading the paper. He was home from jail.
“Get a load of this,” he said. “‘Plant Says Fuck at School’.”
“Don’t say fuck at the table,” said Billy’s mother.
“You shut up,” said Billy’s father.
“That was my plant,” said Billy. “I’m taking care of it for grandfather.”
“That’s my boy,” said Billy’s father. “I’m taking care of his big Harley. I am proud
of you. Be sure and give it plenty of water.”
“Did that,” said Billy.
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