Chapter 9: Bring Your Child To Work Day

Waking up the next day is a nightmare. Riley had not wanted to go to sleep. She continuously got out of bed and played with her toys. She laughed and screamed, waking Maryanne several times during the night. With Max still not home, she is forced to do everything for the child.

Now, with three consecutive hours of sleep, Maryanne is trying to wake Riley up to get ready. Although Geneva is gone, there is a drop-in daycare three blocks over that usually has room for a few extra children a day.

"Come on Riley, I have to get to work." Drying her hair with her towel, Maryanne wanders over to Riley's closet and sifts through her clothes. "Alright, let's see here."

She pulls out a pink long sleeve shirt and a pair of blue jeans.

"Do you want your hair braided today?"

"Yes!" Riley jumps on top of the bed before bouncing off the edge. She doesn't stick her landing though, and falls on her butt, giggling.

"Okay, come on, let's hurry. I can't be late for work."

Riley climbs back up on the