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"Well tell the at my house across the street Your mom will believe Cloud is back for a day "

"If I get caught—"

"You wont " Tully saorried her friend was, and she knew she should stop this plan right now It was reckless, erous But she couldnt stop the train If she didnt do soooey darkness of her own fears Shed think about the mother whod so often and so repeatedly abandoned her, and the strangers hoet caught I promise " She turned to Kate "You trust me, dont you?"

"Sure," Kate said slowly

"Great Then were going to the party "

"Kids! Breakfast is ready "

Kate was the first one to sit down

Mom had just put a plate of pancakes down on the table when there was a knock at the door

Kate juet it " She ran for the door and yanked it open, feigning surprise "Mom, look Its Tully Gosh, I havent seen you in forever "

Moth red velour robe and pink fuzzy slippers "Hey, Tully, its good to see you again Wetrip this year, but I kno important your job is "

Tully lurched forward Looking up, she started to say so, but no sound ca at Kates mom

"What is it?" heron?"

"My gran died," Tully said softly

"Oh, honey" Mo time Finally, Mom drew back, put an ar room

"Turn off the griddle, Katie," Mo back