I was angry. Really, really angry. First, my only friend died. Now, Jem wants to replace Dad. My life is going in ruins.

I calmed myself when Jem became misty-eyed. I asked, "Why did you say that?" Jem began to cry. After a minute, she grasped some air.

"I lied. He and Mom divorced 9 months ago."

It shook me. It grabbed and shook me. It hit me in the stomach. It was aching, painful torture. I began to feel sick.

Rylee came in. "Girls, dinner is..." When she saw us, she stopped. "What happened in here?"

"Rylee, I don't feel so good." I said.

She made me a cup of tea, and sent me to bed. Tears plopped on my pillow. How could my own family do this? Following a few cries and hiccups, I slipped out of the house and ran.