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"Yes," the children said in unison Rebecca doubted all of them-especially Helena-would live up to that

When she went back outside, she found Miss Brighahaht," Mr Delgado said "Just me and the sea"

"You're such a brave man"

"Stupid is , strong man like you"

Rebecca had listened to all of this conversation she could handle Though she was only nine, it was obvious Miss Brigham had a crush on their new arrival As she started down the path to the cave, Rebecca thought it ado She had been the only adult on the island for the last five years That would have to be lonely

Rebecca's thoughts turned froham to David Why did he have to be so mean to her? Why couldn't he understand she couldn't like hih for grown up things like kissing That hat Reverend Crane and Miss Brighaht have to act like an adult at tiot scared of the dark and had to take a doll out from beneath her pillow She shook her head as she realized her bed and the doll were both gone now

The stor to the fountain cave There were a few more rocks scattered around out front, but otherwise it looked the same As she always did, Rebecca took a deep breath before she went inside

Sao That hen Annie had come doith a fever At the tie as Rebecca Samantha took Rebecca into the cave, where she'd first seen the pool of gloater

"That's the Fountain of Youth," Saet any of the water on you, or else you'll turn little again"

"I won't," Rebecca had said

Then she had followed Sae of the fountain Back then when Rebecca had looked down at the water, she had seen herself as a toddler and a baby "Why are my reflections so little?" she asked

"It just shows you who you used to be," Saham"

"Oh," Rebecca said She had taken a step back from the water to watch as Samantha leaned down to scoop some out