The fireflies had arrived, just as my father said they would, and I watched them with my dry lips parted in wonder, my palms sliding expectantly on the lap of my dress. I felt like running and greeting them, but they joined me instead. Dozens of tiny blinks materialized, floating.
"I'm Jeliza-Rose," I said, bouncing on my crossed legs. "Hello."
Their flickers indicated understanding: The more I spoke, the more they blinked—or so I believed.
In vain I reached out, attempting to snatch the nearest one, but when I unclenched my fist there was nothing to be seen. After several failed captures, I made myself content by simply naming the fireflies as they flashed.
"You're Michael. You're Ann. Are you Michael again? No, wait, you're Barbie. And that's Chris. There's Michael."
Then the fireflies were gone, having been whisked afield by the wind. I glanced in the direction of the old house, wondering if my father was in the living room, quiet and awaiting my return.
adapted from Tideland by Mitch Cullin
3
How would the story be different if it were told from the third person point of view?
A.
The audience would see that the narrator is brave for playing with the bugs.
B.
The audience would see that the narrator is foolish for naming the bugs.
C.
The audience would know where the father is at the end of the story.
D.
The audience would know how scared the narrator is of the fireflies.