To my shock, I slept the whole night through, waking when my alarm clock screeched its annoying song. I smashed the snooze bar aggressively, just wanting five more minutes, before the memory of yesterday intruded and drove me out of bed.

Mom's door was open when I peeked in, she and Dad missing. I felt around as cautiously as I could, not wanting her to think I was spying or anything.

Come down to breakfast. Her mental voice was tired but firm.

Okay ...