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Chapter One

Brandon

Age 12

For a few seconds, I stare at the er as the flaht before it reachesit aflame

I’ve always loved the crackling fire The scent of coal and soot The way the fla around it

Like me

I go to my knees and chew the inside ofnothing in its wake The blank slate that appears is soothing to the soul, as my folks would say

If they were here, they’d probably scold s, but I can’t help it Whenever I see the glowing sparks, I light up with a siant crushing a fly

“Whaddya doin’?” an obnoxious voice behind nore it like I always do

Better not engage,to start a fight He’s probably right

“Hello?” the voice says again, this ti in tone