I pulled on my new blue sweater and jeans and tried to admire my reflection. Alison was right. The color was perfect. I just wished my mood was better so I could appreciate it more.

I sulked in my room the rest of the afternoon, ignoring my parents and even Sassy who tried once to get in. I held the door against him and he finally gave up.

At five to six, I landed in the kitchen and stood at the door to wait for Alison. She couldn't come soon enough as far as I was ...