ife in the crowded neighborhood buzzed through the thin walls - a baby crying in the distance, the rattle of wagons wheeled by road merchandisers, and the occasional cha
his dreams to raise Paula and Mia after their mama 's death. Paula frequently flashed back his booming laugh and the way he'd lade her up as a child, spinning her around until they were both dizzy. Now, the times of labor and grief had worn him down, leaving him a shadow of the man he formerly was. " Did you take your drug? " Paula asked vocally, surveying the table for his lozenge bottle. " I'll after breakfast, " he said, trying a reassuring smile. " Promise me, " Paula pressed. He jounced, and she relaxed slightly, though she knew he frequently skipped boluses to save plutocrat. In the bitsy bedroom, Mia moaned lifelessly as Paula nudged her awake. At 15, Mia was bright and full of eventuality, her academic achievements a source of pride for the entire family. Despite her health struggles, she carried a natural gayness that cheered indeed the darkest days. " Five further twinkles, " Mia grunted, pulling the thin mask over her head. Paula scowled and dragged it back.However, you'll condemn me for missing the machine, " If I let you sleep in. Come on, breakfast is ready. " Mia sat up, her curled hair a wild mess, and stretched. " You know, you'd make a terrible alarm timepiece, " she teased, rubbing her eyes. " And you'd make a terrible pupil if you do n't get to academy on time, " Paula shot back, laughing as Mia playfully shoved her. The two sisters participated an unbreakable bond. Despite their age difference, Mia fre