Chapter 6

“Ivory, why would you do such a thing to your friend?” Denise yelled as she walked into Ivory’s room.

She saw Ivory lying on his bed, crying. “Hey, what’s going on?” she asked as she rushed toward his bed.

Ivory sat up and wiped his tears with the back of his hand. “The other kids hate me…” Ivory said with a sad expression on his face.

Denise let out a sigh. “No, don’t say that. Nobody hates you here; we are all family. The other kids just don’t understand how awesome you are,” she said, trying to cheer him up.

Ivory smiled and said, placing his palms over his face, “Don’t say that. I’m not awesome…”

“Of course you are. You’re a strong, talented, brave kid,” Denise said, using her fingers to tickle Ivory.

“Stop, stop!” Ivory yelled, laughing loudly.

Ivory laid his head on Denise’s lap as the room went quiet again. Denise passed her right hand over Ivory’s red, spiky hair.

“I want to stay with you forever, Denise…” Ivory said softly.