Greg chose to go to the abandoned tenement building instead of returning home because he wanted to avoid receiving a lecture from his dad.
His decision to deviate from his usual path home and head towards the old tenement was a conscious effort to postpone or completely sidestep an anticipated reprimand or serious talk from his father. This suggests he expected a negative reaction at home, likely due to a recent event or ongoing issue, and sought a temporary refuge or distraction in the abandoned building. By choosing this alternative destination, Greg aimed to evade immediate confrontation and the uncomfortable situation of facing his dad's lecture.
