Chapter 8: Return to the Tavern

Monday morning arrives. Chad has three days left until he moves. I don't want to see him. It will make it harder for me. If I don't see Chad, I won't be sad. Seeing Chad means feeling, crying, and yuck.

Maryanne comes into my room. Half the time, I call her mom, and the other half Maryanne. Lately, she's been the distant Maryanne type. When she tries to get close to me, she's mom. When she favors Sammy, she's Maryanne. I wish dad were back from his pointless business trip.

As Maryanne comes in, I decide to fake sick. I can always sneak out later and ride Carmel into the deep dark woods. I pull my legs into my stomach and decide my stomach has the flips.

"Good morning, Natalie. It's time for school," Maryanne says.

"I don't feel well," I lie. She feels my head, checks my pulse, and gets me water.

"Is this about Chad?" She asks.

"Yes..." I say. I give my mom the satisfaction of guessing correctly.

"Oh, don't you worry, honey. You can have a mental health day. Take your time. I know you a