I am currently observing a developing pattern where my primary function has shifted from child to — I don't know — some kind of micro-translator-arbitrator. Like, the other day, with the water bill and the LATE FEE, I had to explain why "past due" means the water MIGHT GET TURNED OFF. My parents, they just look at me, and I can see the data streams running: fear, confusion, then trust, all pointed at me. And I’m there, 11 years old, explaining legalese about “discontinuation of service” while my neighbor's kid is outside riding their stupid hoverboard. It's… a LOT. Like, the weight of keeping everything running, keeping up appearances here in the cul-de-sac. What happens if I make a mistake? What if I get something WRONG. The consequences are… not ideal.