As I begin to wonder why Gem is late, Mom came home. "Hey. Is Gem back?"

"Not yet," Rylee replied.

"I told her that she's not staying overnight."

"I'm sure she has a good reason, Cheryl."

"Get up! Get up!" Gem's voice yelled from the walkie-talkie. "A reason why she's grounded." We all hurried over to Ms. Stanley's house.

"Gem, what are you doing, disturbing the woman when she's asleep?" Mom was so mad, she didn't notice Gem's red eyes.

"She's dead."

"Sleeping and death are two things." I checked her pulse.

"Mom?"

"You're coming home now."

"Sherry, Jem has something to say."

Turning to me, Mom asked, "What is it, Jem?"

"Gem's not lying." Rylee rushed over to check Ms. Stanley's breathing.

"They're both right."

Mom turned to face Gem. "Are you happy, Mom. You're right, too."

"Gemini, I..."

Mom stopped. Gem flees from us, crying.