Squirt was born in Oakley, New Jersey, which was where Becca and I were also born. We lived there until the beginning of this school year, when my father's company transferred him to a branch office in Stamford. Sometimes I miss Oakley — or at least I miss certain things about it. For one thing, back in Oakley we lived on the same street as my grandparents, two of my uncles, three aunts, and tons of cousins. One of my cousins,

Keisha, was my best friend. She lived right across the street. I never felt lonely. I also never felt different, which is something I feel quite often here in Stoneybrook. Why? Because my family is African-American. Back in Oakley, there were plenty of other black families. But there aren't too many here. In fact, when we first moved to Stoneybrook, certain individuals weren't too happy about our living here. Some people say that racism comes from ignorance, or from fear, and I think that’s true. Several Stoneybrook residents had never really met a black person before! Now that people have gotten to know us, they're generally a lot nicer. Still, I do feel different sometimes.

"Jessi!" Becca was trying to get my attention.

"What is it?" I asked.

"I think I know a secret," she said. Becca is crazy about secrets.

"Oh?" I asked. "Are you going to tell me what it is?"

She nodded. "Mom and Dad are only pretending I'm not coming to the wedding," she said. "At the last minute, they're going to take me with them."

"Uh, Becca — " I was about to tell her that her "secret" sounded more like a wish, but then I saw how hopeful she looked and I couldn't stand to say it. "Maybe," I replied

carefully. "But I don't think so. They'd like to take you, but I don't think they can." Her face fell. I felt awful. "But you're going to have a terrific time at the Pikes'," I said. "You always have fun over there, remember?" I hoped I didn't sound as desperate as I felt. Becca looked crestfallen. "Come on and smile for me," I said. I reached out and hugged her again.