"Sorry." Alexis murmured, "I don't know what to say."
Sitting sullenly on their beds, the sisters stared at various spots on the ceiling, walls, and floor.
"That's good." Summer returned tiredly, "Cause I don't know what to do anymore." She sighed loudly. "I can't take this much longer either."
Watching her, Alexis noticed the dark smudges that were stubbornly peeking out from under multiple layers of makeup. "It's almost over." She tried, being cheerful, "Dad says De Salbo will be making the charges soon. Maybe even tonight."
Rubbing her eyes, Summer laughed bitingly. "Trying to make me runaway so that you could have your own room, Lex?"
She smiled wryly, "Not a bad idea. I've always wanted my own room."
"It's a lot of fun. I had my own room for a few years." Summer nodded, "and then for some reason, mom and dad thought that I should have a playmate."
Alexis snorted, "You've almost killed me a hundred times."
She sighed dramatically, "And they keep stopping me, and I don't know why."
"Because I'm the cute one."
Summer smiled, "Or they don't want to be charged with neglecting their parental duties."
Alexis shrugged, "That too."
The soft knock on their bedroom door had them both tensing again. Drawing in a deep breath, Summer tried to steady herself. "Come in." They both tried to ignore the crack in her voice.
Mrs. McPherson walked in slowly, her hands twisting, followed by Sergeant De Salbo and their father.
Summer smiled weakly, "anyone remember to bring the popcorn and gummi bears?"
Alexis laughed, and that was enough for her. "She thinks I'm funny." She muttered dryly. "At least someone does."
"We have to make the charges tonight." De Salbo remarked surly.
"I know." Summer answered, nodding; "I was informed."
No one moved and she laughed bitterly, "am I supposed to put out my wrists and get new bracelets or something?"
De Salbo moved into the room and stared long and hard at her. Summer returned the look, measure for measure. He smiled suddenly and she flinched. "We've already made the charges."
The way her face revealed a stunned look was nearly comical. Along with her ultra intelligent, "Huh?"
