• Chapter 26 "The Ways We React"

    Emma was standing in front of her bathroom mirror, looking at herself. She wanted to cry, but she was also afraid her makeup would run if she did, and then her parents would be annoyed with her for making...

  • Chapter 25 "Public Execution"

    Shane Irres was standing in his apartment, one hand in his pocket, the other wrapped around the phone that was pushed against his face. "No, I know, and that's why I'm leaving," he said, "Look, I'll...

  • Chapter 24 "One In Every Family"

    Chris Irres didn't particularly like social situations. He wasn't antisocial by any means, but he especially hated group things like parties. Right now, standing in the room next to the snack table,...

  • Chapter 23 "Performance Art"

    Chiako opened her front door, her eyes wide, surprised to see Gus standing on her porch. She smiled and stepped aside, offering him entrance. He smiled and walked past her, hearing her shut the door behind...

  • Chapter 5 "The Toybox"

    Stacy Baker was doing something she usually didn't do. Cleaning. But since firing their nanny, she had to pick up some of the slack around the house, and since she didn't have work today, this seemed...

  • Chapter 22 "I'm In A Bad Place"

    Melanie couldn't believe her eyes. Standing there in the hallway, her eyes wide, her jaw somewhat slack, she almost wanted to pinch herself to make sure she wasn't dreaming or something. She wanted to...