Chapter 29: Cricket's Shoes

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He takes it out of Cricket's mouth

Cricket: Hmm, ahh!

He is lying in his hammock looking very ill

Bill: You've got a fever, alright. That's what happens when you share your Popsicle with the dog.

Cricket: How dare you, Dad?! Phoenix is our steadfast protector. She deserves a treat now and then!

Phoenix: Hmmm.

He coughs out the popsicle stick. The others come in

Cricket: Family, you've heeded my call.

Tilly: We're here for you, brother.

Gramma: Quick! Tell us what you want before you give us the plague.

The room darkens around Cricket. A light above his bed gives him the spotlight

He is coughing

Cricket: Family, as you know, today I am unable to perform my normal duties due to this accursed sickness. You must go in my stead.

Bill: Of course, son.

Tilly: We'd do anything to help.

Cricket: Tilly, I need you to work with Baraka at my shift at the cafe.

She gives Tilly uniform

She puts on hat

Tilly: I'll be the best Cricket I can be.

She walks away

Cricket: Good luck, sweet sister. Now Gramma, I beckon you. You must hang out... with Remy.

Gramma: "Remy"?! Who's that?

Cricket: He's my best friend!

He takes out photo of him and Baraka and Remy

Cricket: You know, glasses, wears a sweater vest, he's standing right behind you?

He is indeed standing behind her

Remy: Hi, Mrs. Green!

Gramma: Aww, him? That boy's no fun! He's softer than creamed corn.

Remy: Hey. I love creamed corn!

He walks over to Gramma

Remy: Today's going to be so much fun!

He grabs her arm

Remy: We're going to spend the whole day together!

She rolls eyes

Gramma: Oh, joy.

Cricket: Dad, come closer.

Bill: What is it, my boy?

Cricket: I saved the most important task for you. I promised a bunch of kids. I would go to the dog park...

Bill: Yes? Yes?

Cricket: And run around with my pants full of hot dogs and baloney

He falls "unconscious", sticks out tongue

Cricket: Bleh.

Bill: What?! 

Bill: But then the dogs will try to bite you!

Cricket: Exactly!

Cricket: Bleh.

He falls "unconscious" again

Bill: Why on Earth would you promise to do that?

Cricket: Because... I don't know.

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