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Mrs. Parks blew me a kiss, and I felt an ugly pit growing in my stomach. I needed to make sure my grandma was okay.
Edie’s dad got back in the car and drove us to the hospital. I appreciated the silence. I didn’t need small talk, and this allowed silent tears to trek down my face.
When we arrived, he drove up the long lane where you could drop or pick up patients from. Sitting on a bench outside, holding his head, was my grandpa.
Mr. Malone rolled down the passenger window. “Need me to stay?”
“No.” Grandpa shook his head as I climbed out and closed the door. “Thanks, Irv.”
“You know where I am if you need anything.”
“Thanks.”
The window went up, and I took my grandpa’s hand. “Let’s go see Grandma.”
“Honey. Wait.” He stopped me from pulling him and his voice sounded frail. “I need to tell you something.”
A chill ran through my body, and I looked into his eyes. I’d seen that look before.
“Honey.” Tears filled his eyes. “Something happened.”
My head shook as I took a step back. “No.”
I watched as he worked to swallow and stop the tears. “Miranda.”
“No.” My voice came out firmer. “Where’s grams? What room is she in?” I demanded as an officer came outside.
Sheriff Coats looked between us, removed his hat, and bowed his head. “Miranda.”
“NO!” I couldn’t stop myself from screaming.
Grandpa’s arms wrapped around me and held me tight. “She had a heart attack, baby. It hit so fast there wasn’t a thing anyone could’ve done.”
“You’re lying.” Tears streamed down my face.
“I wish I were.” His voice broke as he squeezed me tighter.
“You have to be.” I sobbed.
“Baby, I’m sorry.” Grandpa sobbed, holding on to me.
Henry
I couldn’t wait to get to school and see Miranda.
My lips still tingled from kissing her. I knew she was a sixth grader, but I didn’t care. She was so different from the girls that hung around with us.
Honest. Kind. Beautiful.
Ethan elbowed me. “What’s got you smiling like a derp?”
I looked around to see who sat closest and then leaned in so only he could hear me. “I kissed Miranda.”
“Dude, I know. I was there.” He laughed. “I’m the one who dared you to.”
I shook my head. “No. Last night at the club.”
“When?” His eyes narrowed.
