Chapter 24

Beth nearly jumped out of her skin. She whirled around, arm still extended and eyes wide as they searched the darkness for the source of the voice. But she didn't have to. She knew who it was, had known it from the very first syllable. It was funny how she recognized it even more quickly than she would that of her own mother or sister now.

"Daniel! What are you doing here?"

"...I couldn't sleep. I was going to ask you the same question."

"Me neither. I can't sleep a wink."

"Even though you stayed up all last night with your family? You should be exhausted."

"I know, but I still can't seem to fall asleep anyway. My eyes close and the world lights up behind my eyelids."

The conversation fluttered off, leaving them to stare at each other under the beaming moon. A few nocturnal butterflies flitted between them. Well? Was that it? Beth had no intention of returning to the house, but since Daniel had apparently been here first, she should probably leave. She could go on a walk, clear her he