Chapter 95

• Emerald and Annie spent the entire night watching movies, though it was clear their thoughts were elsewhere. Emerald wasn't sure what was weighing so heavily on Annie's mind, but she spent most of the night contemplating how she could help her friend without causing her more pain.
• She had nearly gone to her mother for advice, but seeing Annie's determination to keep the matter private held her back. Despite feeling uneasy about Annie's need for secrecy, Emerald knew she had to respect her friend's wishes.
• Emerald sighed deeply as she opened her eyes to the bright early afternoon light filtering into her room. She mumbled incoherently as she turned over, stopping mid-stretch when she realized Annie was no longer beside her.