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

I'll get an ambulance," Ruby cried, running for the phone.


"Hurry!" Verna ordered, checking Aunt Flory's pulse. Her lips and fingers were blue, and she was barely breathing. Celeste watched wide-eyed, frozen with fear.


"Help me get her on her back," Verna instructed Zoey. Despite her thin frame, Verna was surprisingly strong. They flipped Aunt Flory on her back.


Zoey slipped a pillow under Aunt Flory's head, noticing her own hands were shaking. Ruby returned to the room with a blanket. She covered Aunt Flory. "The ambulance is on its way," she said.


"Get a cold cloth," Verna told Ruby. "She's breathing, and her heart is beating. We have to keep her comfortable until help gets here."


"Should we call Dr. Tanner?" Zoey asked as Ruby reappeared with the cloth.


Zoey applied it to Aunt Flory's forehead, but she didn't respond. Panic overtook her.


"Yes, and go get Mr. Nelson too," Verna commanded. Ruby disappeared again, leaving Zoey feeling lost.


Chapter 42