Chapter Eight

And when she reaches home. The ugliest of them all. She is different.

She has a smile. One of joy. As bright as hope. And warm as love. Why? Because. Because of the five words. That still ring in her head. "Can I walk you home?"

Words from the most beautiful voice she has heard. Ever since time begun. And her parents. Mr. and Mrs. Simpson. Both see it. Never had they seen it before. A smile so bright.

And her happiness is their weakness. For they don't say a word. Even as she walks past them. Even as she never comes. To the dining table.

Because it's the first time. Her heart has been touched.