Laura decides to fake being sick. She heads downstairs slowly, clutching her stomach. Once she enters the kitchen, she lets out a groan. Mark’s mom looks up from the dishes she is currently washing.
“What’s wrong, sweetie?”
“My tummy hurts,” Laura whines. “I think I’m sick.”
“Hmm.” Mark’s mom dries off her hands and walks over to Laura, putting the back of her hand on her forehead. “You don’t have a fever…” Mark’s mom puts her hands on her hips. “Alex, you’ve done this before. Pretending to be sick won’t help you get out of school.”
“But-”
“No buts. Get some cereal, then we need to head out,” Mark’s mom says firmly. Laura scowls, but with no other options, does as she’s told. After a quick breakfast, Mark’s mom gives Laura a backpack filled with school supplies and ushers Laura and Mark into the family van. Laura’s dread builds as they approach Alexis’ school.
In short time, Mark’s mom pulls up outside of the elementary school Alexis attends. Mark hops out eagerly, while Laura reluctantly follows. Mark’s mom smiles at them.
“Have a good day at school!” she chirps. Mark and Laura nod. Mark’s mom drives away. Mark immediately begins to head inside, not noticing that Laura hasn’t moved. Laura’s heart soars. Now’s her chance to escape.