Malory and Kyle must participate in the annual April Fest production as the leading co-stars. If they can cooperate by the end of the production, their long records of uncivilized behaviour towards each other will be forgotten. 
Malory and Kyle attempt to cooperate, grabbing the opportunity to make a positive impact on their own future. In the process, they become entangled in the chaos of the other’s personal life. Malory learns of Kyle’s disturbing reality, and Kyle learns of Malory’s scarring past. Can these two brilliant but messy teens learn to rely on each other in the face of their silent battles?

Between The Lines

 “We know, honey,” she says, glancing over to my dad before turning back to me, “which is why you’ll stay here while we go. We’ll have your aunt watch over you while we’re gone. Rachel and Denise will be there to keep you company, too. You won’t be alone.” 


 I’ve stopped eating my lunch. I don’t feel hungry anymore. 


 My parents have just informed me that they will be going on a missions trip to South Africa –both of them will be going, along with a team from the church. Usually when they go anywhere, I’m always tagging along. It ends up being a family trip, of sorts. Today... well... this is a surprise. 


 “How long is this trip going to be?” I ask, lowly. 


 “Not long,” my dad says, “Two weeks –Sunday to Sunday.” 


 “Yes,” mom confirms. “We’re finalising everything and then we’ll make a general statement to the church and organise the travelling group –but you obviously had to be the first to know.” 


 “It’s going to be weird,” I say, grimacing. “You’ve never left me alone like that.” 


 “But we know you’re responsible,” my mom says smiling. She puts a warm hand over mine as it lays limp on the dining room table. “You can take care of yourself for just a little while. And it’s not like you’ll be alone alone. Your Aunty Naomi and cousins are good company. I’m sure you’ll be fine. And if you’re feeling lonely, talk to God, and if you miss us, call.” 


 I suppose my aunt and cousins are fair company –but Rachel cares about clothes too much, and Denise does nothing but suck up to her mother. 


 Aunt Naomi... maybe I could persuade her into letting me out sometimes. She knows Malory. She won’t have a problem with it. I think. 


 “I will. I will call frequently. Both of you make sure to be safe while you’re gone. I’m saying it in advance,” I tell them as they continue eating. 


 I look down at my plate –half my food is gone, so I might as well eat the rest of it. 


 Maybe for once, I can experience a new level of freedom.


The Return [4]