Chapter 5

Sarah piped her lips and turned towards the window when she saw the guest. Vera twirled to watch her, hiding her amusement under the guise of staring away. She felt pity and sad at the same time. Forcing a smile on her lips, she stared at the gray-haired boy. His name was Philip, and she'd known about his crushing on her since the first grade. Quite a loner who stayed out only with the pip-squeaked Cornis. She wondered why he wasn't there with him.

The expression on his face masked shame, and he was a bit shy. Vera broadened the smile on her face and tapped on the bed, motioning him to sit. Her mom stood up and folded her arms. She walked past him, flashing him a welcome smile.

"Keep her company, I'll check what I have on the fire." Then she turned towards Sarah, "Would you like to help me cut the potatoes, Sarah?"

Sarah grinned, "Yes, Mrs. Damascus. I'll be right behind you." She cut her eye at Vera and then to the boy, saying, " Hi, Philip."

Mr. Damascus wa