Zoey has no idea what it means to be normal. Everything she touches has a taste, and her father’s identity is a town secret. Her sisters have their own issues. While it's a struggle for Celeste to connect with the world, Ruby, who has a flair for the dramatic, doesn't worry about anything. Orphaned at birth, the fourteen-year-old triplets live with their aunt and mark seasons by the annual migration of captivating birds. Despite an almost idyllic childhood grounded in Aunt Flory's home-cooked food and family values, Zoey struggles with her identity in a community where the Starling family is the subject of gossip. But secrets run deep in the small town, and the triplets aren't the only ones with something to hide. Zoey soon discovers that the truth isn't obvious and different perspectives shape the world. It's always how you choose to look at things that matters most.

Bugs, Weeds, and Water is created by Evangeline Greene, an eGlobal Creative Publishing signed author.

Bugs, Weeds, and Water

"She chews gum in class and doesn't get in trouble for that either," Ruby complained.


"I want gum," Celeste piped up, jumping into the conversation.


"Try some chicken," Aunt Flory said. "I tried cutting it a different way."


"I don't want it," Celeste said, pushing it away. "I want gum." She'd been agitated all day, and Aunt Flory speculated that hormones were the culprit. She booked an appointment with Dr. Tanner later in the week but warned Ruby and Zoey to tread lightly around her in the meantime.


"Even Celeste doesn't get away with things the way Evelyn does," Ruby grumbled into her plate. "And she's got an excuse."


"Celeste, honey, finish your dinner," Aunt Flory coaxed her.


"I don't like it," Celeste said, her face fixed into a frown. She pushed her plate dangerously close to the edge of the table. Aunt Flory's fork braked in mid-motion when it crashed to the floor. Zoey quickly shot Ruby a way-to-go look.


Ruby looked stricken. "I forgot," she mumbled.


Chapter 26