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Um... “It’s only for high schoolers, Parker.”

“But girls ask the guys. And the guy has to say yes and take them to the high school dance.”

“That’s not exactly how it works.” The guys didn’t have to say yes. It wasn’t like a hostage situation.

Parker turned to RJ. “Take me to the Sadie Hawkins dance.”

RJ laughed. “You’re like five.”

“I’m nine.”

RJ just shook his head. “Not happening. And you didn’t even ask. It sounded a lot more like a demand.”

“Yes, I demand that you take me to the Sadie Hawkins dance. Or else.”

“What the hell?” RJ turned to me. “I’m not doing that.”

Parker kicked him again.

“Stop kicking me!”

“Then take me to the dance.”

“No.”

“RJ,” I said. “Come on. She’s going to help us solve the countdown.”

“Are you kidding me right now?” he said.

“Suck it up, buttercup,” Sophie said.

“I can’t take a five year old to a high school dance.”

“Nine,” Parker said.

RJ sighed.

“Please,” I mouthed silently.

RJ just glared at me.

I leaned in to whisper to him. “Please.”

“I’m not...”

“RJ, just say yes and you can cancel later.”

RJ sighed. “Fine. Whatever. I’ll take you to the Sadie Hawkins dance.”

Parker smiled up at him. “Great. I’ll show you my dresses while we’re at my place.” And then she turned to Sophie. “Will you also buy another of my paintings?”

“Of course,” Sophie said. “I need another Parker original.”

Parker smiled. “Okay. Let’s go break into Axel’s room again. Luckily I found the key I’d lost.” She turned around. “Mom! I’m going out with my friends.”

Aunt Hails turned around from her spot on the couch. “What?”

“I’m going out, Mom. With my friends.” She pointed to us. “Geez,” she whispered. “She’s always like this.”