The next day, Lily showed up at my mom’s with a bag slung over her shoulder.
Chloe peeked out from behind the couch, like she was checking if Lily was still dangerous.
Lily didn’t push.
She knelt down to Chloe’s height and spoke softly, like she was approaching a scared animal.
“Hey, Chloe,” she said. “Can I show you something?”
Chloe clung to my leg, but she nodded—barely.
Lily reached into the bag and pulled out one of the masks.
This one wasn’t scary. It had a goofy grin and big cartoon eyes.
Then Lily slipped it on.
“See?” she said, voice slightly muffled. “It’s not a head. It’s just for Halloween.”
