by Steven Fox
“Thanks. And…are you sure about…?”
“I’ve always wanted a sister,” said Len. “I have no problem taking care of Shemillah.”
“Thank you. Without you, I wouldn’t be here.”
“Same to you. And I wouldn’t have it any other way, Jason.”
The door opened and Darlene and Tara burst through the door, laughing. “This sicko licked my nose!” said Tara. “Control your girlfriend, Len!”
Len shrugged. “Sadly, she wears the pants in our relationship.”
Everyone laughed. Then Tara kneeled down behind Jason and kissed the back of his head, where the chip in his seal had been. Now there was nothing but the electricity of Tara’s sweet kiss.
Jason stood, kneeled, and hooked his hands together behind his back. He looked back at Tara and smiled. “Wanna give this another go?”
Tara smiled, and it was the most beautiful thing he’d ever seen. “I do.”
Len and Darlene cheered as Jason hoisted her up, and while “Happily Ever After,” didn’t exist, they all lived happily in the moment.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The author must thank many people—including all his friends and family who read his first novel and demanded more each day after (especially his #1 fan, Aunt Christine).
Jamie Dee—for spotting and recognizing the raw potential for writing back in high school. The author also blames her for his Vonnegut addiction.
Jill Storm—for teaching the author to dig deeper than surface-level and for handing him an awesome pool of knowledge to draw from.
E.A. Zokaites—for being a friend and writing partner. She has given the author many insights into art and the art he himself creates.
Mom and Dad—for putting up with the author’s mischief and often debilitating procrastination. The author loves them very much.
Payton—the author’s love and ultimate reason for writing. Thank you for being awesome.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Steven Fox is a young adult author. This is his debut novel.
Fox currently resides in Iowa, where he survives ice storms and battles the ever-growing urge to eat Hershey’s candy bars.
