Chapter 27: The Mission

It's well past dark by the time I sneak out of the house. Mom and Dad are still watching TV. Sometimes I think it's their favorite pastime. I'm not complaining, though. Their addiction allows me to do what I have to, to make things right.

Jimmy. Tom went after Jimmy and his family just to get to me. And that I can't tolerate.

Ten blocks to school. My sneakers pad over pavement as I skirt the streetlights as best I can. Sure, I probably look like I'm skulking or something, but I can't bring myself to just walk down the street like nothing's happening. Number one, I'm too wound up to treat this like any ordinary night. And two, well. I can't help it.

This is kind of fun no matter where I'm going. Or how serious the act I'm contemplating.

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