`coloring [outside] the lines; [+12]

Before his hand twisted the door knob and opened the door, he pressed his ear against the door. It was 10:42, forty-two minutes after his curfew. He knew his mother would be cool about it, but it ached his heart to even imagine the look of disappointment that’d be on her face. He was still on a high from this evening and didn’t want it to be ruined so soon.
Silence. He twisted the knob and pushed it open gently. He crept in, closing the door behind him. His mother had left the entry light on, probably for his step dad, being a doctor he normally came home late. He slowly kicked off his Spiz'ike Kings Kounty Jordans, and picked them up before walking across the cold freshly polished marble floor to the right staircase, up to his room. Just as his right foot touched the mahogany stair he heard, “Carnell Robert Young, family room now.” He just sighed, his high officially gone.

“Hi Mom,” he said as if he done nothing wrong. “Sit,” she commanded. He complied quickly. “You are aware of time,” she said pointing to the giant clock behind her on the wall. “Yes,” he said not taking his eyes off her face. She sighed, “I’m not upset; I’m disappointed.” “I know. I’d rather you be mad at me... I just lost track of time. I promise it won’t happen again.” “Maybe basketball and school is too much for you-” “What?! No!” yelled Carnell, “I just slipped today. I can handle everything. I promise; don’t make me quit the team,” pleaded Carnell. “Fine. But this is it. One more slip and you’ll be home right after practice. I’ll pick you up my damn self,” his mother, Rachel Long, said with a stern voice. “Yes, M’am,” said Carnell getting up.
“And son, you need to stop fucking around with those fast ass girls before you get yourself in trouble.” Carnell froze his whole body going cold. It was like she knew he just came from Camille’s. “Uh huh. You thought I didn’t know. I’m your mother, I know everything...” The silence was agonizing. “I can’t stop you, I just pray I taught you well.” “You did Mom,” he said turning around to face her, but he could look her in the eye, guilt forbade him. “I don’t want to be having this conversation with you, nor should I, but it’s not like your father’s around... It’s just as awkward for me as it is for you.” “So let’s not have this conversation,” begged Carnell. “We need to... but I guess it can wait another day.” Carnell’s body loosened up with a sigh. “Good night Carnell,” his mother said as she got up out the loveseat and retied her robe. “Good night Mom; love you.” “Love you too sweetie.”
He sat in silence as his mother left the room. He’d think again before he ever thought of missing his curfew again.