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Chapter 1: Peoria

“O kay darling, make a wish” My father put his hand on my shoulder

“But you can’t tell anyone—otherwise it won’t come true” My mother stood next to ether

“Wish for a pony—just like I did!” My niece, Annie, who had recently turned five, swirled in a circle as she told the world what her last birthday as for the tenth time in the last hour

“That’s why you’re not getting a pony, little er “You can’t stop telling people your wish!”

“If Peoria gets a pony, I can ride it!” Annie stared at her er, which was nor else

My lips ca at the candles in front of nified another year offla fro but a puff of s up from my birthday cake A cheer erupted in the room as my family and friendsthe cake and I leaned back with a sed to take care of all of them in one breath

Myin the shape of a purple rose—I liked icing a lot ed into the rose and I lifted it tostarted to ue It was so sweet that I wouldn’t have even considered another bite most days, but since it was my birthday, I ja off that als before it hit my lips The cake started to disappear as my mother passed out pieces to everyone in attendance and I watched their faces erupt in the same joy of deliciousness that was present on mine

“This is so good, Mrs Dawson” My best friend, Fiona, sank down into a chair and cheith a look of ultimate bliss on her face

“Thank you, Fiona” My mother picked up a slender piece of cake and carved off a tiny sliver before lifting the fork to her mouth

“What did you wish for, Peoria? Did you wish for a pony?” Annie started trying to cli

“Annie, stop it Eat your cake” My aunt pulled Annie off e piece of cake—it was nothingto send her spiraling into a sugar high

“I wished for the sa I wish for every year” I s into my mouth

Freedom