Chapter 32

Then he spotted the shiny pink lips and glittery blue eye shadow. He stopped in mid-step and stared.

She quivered in front of him, obviously scared as she waited for his reaction. Twelve,he reminded himself. Twelve and already wearing makeup. Jesus Christ, help me now.

Finally he asked, “Does your mother know you wear that stuff?”

Crys shook her head. “It’s only for tonight,” she admitted. “I bought it a few days ago with my allowance. Is it too much?”

Larry felt himself relax. “No, you look fine. Beautiful, in fact. But if you ever wear it to school—”

“I won’t,” she promised. “I already got some of the glitter in my eye. It stings like a—well, you know.”

With a laugh, Larry said, “Actually I don’t, but I can imagine. If you’re ready, let’s go. We can grab a bite to eat when we get there.”