Across the street from us is Ms. Stanley. She's a friendly widow. She and Gem get along very well. One thing about Ms. Stanley that shocks me is that she's very perky for her age. She is also mobile.

Speaking of Mom, I get along with her greatly. I don't get why she understands one of us better than the other. Yet, I know what happened to Dad. "Mom, is it okay that I tell Gem?"

"About Dad. She's family, after all."

"Jem, if we do, she'll be cross." So, when Gem asks me, I have no choice, but to lie. "Dad is on a business trip."

"When will he return?"

"Soon," I fibbed. I dislike lying to my twin. I also don't want to disobey Mom. The thing is, Mom and Dad divorced six months ago.

Gem was with Ms. Stanley during that time. She and Dad were like buddies. One word on this to her, and she'll blame Mom for chasing him away. Gem is more like Dad: the carefree attitude, the love for outdoors, and the stubborness.