“Will you just come out, Philip?” Hazel crosses her arms with a huff. “No.” His voice is squeaky. “I’m too afraid.” “We’ve been through this. There’s nothing to be afraid of.” She sinks to her knees so she can see him eye-to-eye. “What if I see it?” His voice trembles but she sees movement from inside the doorway. “You probably won’t. But even if you do, is it really such a big deal?” A small furry face pops into view, whiskers twitching. “You sure it’s okay?” “Just get out h

“Happy birthday!” Jesse’s sister stood outside his bedroom door. He rubbed his eyes. “How long have you been standing here?” “Who cares?” She grinned. “How does it feel to be sixteen?” Jesse rolled his eyes and headed to the bathroom. “Very funny. I’m seventeen today.” “Whatever. Joke all you want. Happy Sweet Sixteen, bro!” She bounced to her bedroom. Jesse shook his head and continued down the hall. His mom was just exiting the bathroom. “Happy sixteen, buddy!” She kissed h