NIGHTMARE

I see IT in the hallway. IT goes to Merryweather. IT is walking with Aubrey Cheerleader.  It is my nightmare and I can't wake up. IT sees me. IT smiles and winks. Good thing my lips are stitched together or I'd throw up.

Parents

At first, Mom was pretty good about preparing dinners in the morning and sticking them in the fridge, but I knew it would end. I came home to a sticky note that said, "Pizza. 555-4892. Small tip this time." Clipped to the notes was a twenty-dollar bill. My family has a good system. We communicate with note on the kitchen counter. I write when I need school supplies or a ride to the mall. They write what time they'll be back from work and if I should thaw anything. What else is there to say?

Mom is having staff problems again. My mother manages Effert's, a clothing store downtown. I think that she likes to work in the city to see everyone's reactions. "Aren't you afraid of?" people ask.

I am honestly scared of talking to my dad. I feel as if he will want to get me to talk about why I am so different after the party, but the truth is, I REALLY don't want to talk about it.