WEDNESDAY NIGHT,
OCTOBER 4, 1871
- It Was All a Big Lie! -
Poppy once again found herself at the lakeside. She found a grassy spot near the shore where she curled up, her knees drawn to her chest, and pulled her sweater around her. The wind must have switched, because the smell of smoke was strong and the stars were dim.
Poppy decided she’d run away just as soon as she gave the wax impression of the key to Ma. She’d never come back to this stinking place, and she’d never trust anyone again. She’d take care of herself and … if she had to steal to eat, that’s what she’d do. But now it would be for herself, not for people like Ma and Mr. Plant, who used her to steal for them.
She thought of Justin and Claire. She’d get rid of any stupid idea that she could be part of a family. She pushed the Butterworths out of her mind—for good, she hoped, because it hurt to remember Claire, the new dress, the pretty rooms, and the candlelight on the silverware.
There was no way she could ever be different. How could she? She had no family, no chance to go to school and learn to read. There was no one who’d give a chance to someone like her.
She closed her eyes and wondered if Ticktock missed her. Ticktock seemed to love Poppy, and Ticktock didn’t care if she was a thief. The goat ran to greet her, the little bell around her neck jingling and her tail wagging, whenever Poppy visited.
Well, tomorrow Poppy would give the wax key impression to Ma. Then at least Ticktock would be safe.
Poppy looked up at the starlit sky and remembered the wishes she’d made. Wishes don’t come true! You’d have to be really stupid to believe that.
And what did Claire say about me that night when she gave me the dress? That I’m like one of those rocks—the geode—and that I have a sparkling crystal of goodness deep inside of me?
What good is it? I’m still Poppy the pickpocket, and everything she said is all a big lie.
Poppy’s eyes were heavy, and soon she fell asleep to the sound of the water lapping against the shore.