Sammy wakes me up. He’s filled with energy. He spins in a circle four times then runs to the wheel. “Woodpeckers! Spin it fast!”

I pull down. I’m still tired. Tack-ity. Tack-ity. Tack-ity. It’s a slow spin. A minute later the wheel stops, right on QUESTIONS.

I find the note and read it.

 

QUESTIONS

 

Asking questions is a good way to get to know people and make them feel good. Pick three people who are not family members or close friends. Ask them these two questions.

 

What is the best thing that has happened to you this week?

 

What is the worst thing that has happened to you this week?

 

Have fun!

 

Picking my own best and worst is easy. My best is meeting Mae and my worst is April being friends with her. That’s not a fun thing to think about first thing in the morning.

“LET’S GO!”

The words surprise me. It’s Isabella.

When we get to her room, she points to her chair. “SIT!”

Isabella’s bossy, even first thing in the morning. Sammy and I both sit—​me in the chair and Sammy on the floor. Dogs aren’t allowed on her bed.

Isabella brushes my hair. “How about a crazy cute hairstyle, instead of just a crazy one?”

I nod.

“Keep still.” She pokes me with the brush.

It’s hard to sit and do nothing, so I tell her about Mae.

Isabella talks too. “I’ve seen the brother. He’s in my French class. His name’s Rocket.”

I want to ask questions, but I can’t open my mouth. She’s spraying my head with hair spray and it tastes terrible. I close my eyes and hold my breath.

She pokes me again. “Done.”

When I open my eyes, she’s holding a mirror. I look. There are two little triangle braids right on the top of my head. They look like ears.

“Squirrel ears,” says Isabella. She points the hairbrush at Sammy. “For you and your friend.”

“SQUIRRELS?” Sammy runs to the window.

I love my hair! And then I do something I can’t help. I give Isabella a giant hug. And, SURPRISE! She hugs me back.