May Bird and the Ever After (39 page)

They both knew the North was unknown and dangerous. They didn't have to say it.

“I wonder what she wants from you.” Pumpkin pulled his knees in tight.

May shrugged. She had told Bea and Fabbio about the Lady of North Farm. It had just seemed right. She wondered too.

“Do you think she'll be angry with you?”

“I don't know. I don't know anything about her, really. But I guess it doesn't matter. I don't seem to have a choice.” She breathed in the night air. “The Undertaker said I wouldn't.”

Pumpkin surveyed May with his droopy eyes. “You look worried.”

May smiled, brushing a small tear from her eye.

“Nah. Not about that. I was thinking of my mom. She doesn't have me
or
Kitty now.”

Pumpkin thought for a few moments. “You'll find your way back. We'll make sure.”

Actually, May had been thinking of something her mom had said. About how you didn't make friends, but let them happen. May wanted to repeat this to Pumpkin, who had happened to her most of all, but she was too shy. Instead she said, “I know we will.”

Pumpkin smiled. They looked back at Beatrice and Fabbio. May stroked Somber Kitty, who didn't look somber at all at the moment. “He is pure goodness, you know.”

They didn't say any more. And for hours they were content to watch the Ever After go by in the dark.

The text of this book, was Set in Berkeley Old style. The illustrations are rendered in pastels. Editor: Jennifer Weiss Production editor: Jeannie Ng Designer: Debra Sfetsios Production manager: Melisa Idelson