Ugly Duckling

Nora, Jesse, Kinley and Leia left for school in Jesse's mustang.

I stood at the living room window, watching them drive away.

I'd taped the toilet paper with Nora's number to the top of my alarm clock so that I wouldn't lose it.

I was planning on calling her as soon as Jesse stepped foot in the door after school.

I was just so excited
thrilled happy anxious

I wanted a friend

needed a friend.

And having a friend like Nora Roberts seemed like a good idea.

At least I thought so.