PART 18

Ashley returned to school on a cool morning when the clouds were thin and the pavement smelled of freshly cut grass.

Aunt Helen held one hand and June held the other until they reached the steps.

Natalie waited near the entrance in ordinary clothes.

“You don’t have to walk me in,” Ashley told her.

“Okay.”

Ashley took three steps, then ran back to hug her.

“But thank you.”