Adelina's mother, Rosa Lopez, was at home for the week. Normally, she would be preparing lessons and projects for her class at Thayer Elementary. But her department head said she should take some grieving time.
But it was weird at home. The house was so lonely without Adelina, her only child. She grabbed some cereal from the pantry and the door made a loud, "CRRREEEAK." Her Reese's Puffs hit the floor. How could she be so stupid? Just a stupid door.
She flipped channels between soap operas, reality shows, telenovelas, and local news. She wrapped a blanket around herself, because even in March, Illinois was chilly.
Suddenly, she saw Adelina on the TV screen.
"Mom, it's me! I've missed you," said Adelina.
"I've missed you too, Lina," said Rosa.
"Look at my new dress. Don't you love it?" asked Adelina. She showed off a red dress with a long train.
Personally, Rosa thought it was too flashy, but she just wanted her daughter to be happy. "It's lovely," she said.
Adelina laughed and spun around. Suddenly sparks were flying from the dress. The sparks turned to flames. A giant blazing fire engulfed her.
"Mama, Mama, what's happening to me? Help me!"
Rosa woke up on the couch to a blank TV. Adelina, the red dress, and the fire were all gone.
YOU ARE READING
Aurora, Illinois
Mystery / ThrillerIt starts with a shocking crime. Kids at the local high school collapse into grief. The police try to unravel the mystery, but this one may be more than they can handle. Meanwhile, criminals are bringing drugs and sex workers into a town that can't...
