Julie turned toward me. The police officer turned toward me. And then I froze. Because he s

tarted walking toward me. He wasn't there to tell Julie something. He was there to tell me something.

The officer crouched down in front of me and I held my breath for one second.

"Your parents were in an accident."

For two seconds.

"We rushed them to the hospital."

For three seconds.

"I'm so sorry, Summer."

For four seconds.

"They didn't make it."

It took five seconds for me to realize that my whole world had suddenly changed. Five seconds to realize that my life was no longer complete. Five seconds to realize that everything was broken.

Chapter 3

Summer,

I know your grandmother said you could come visit sometime soon. My soccer team made it into the playoffs. If you could come to our next game, that would be amazing. I know it's a long drive, but you're my good luck charm.

Hope you're doing well. How is your new school? I'm trying to convince my mom to move to Colorado. She's not thrilled with the idea. Give me all the highlights and maybe I can sway her.

-Miles

***

Dear Miles,

I would love to come to your game. But my grandmother isn't up to driving so far. Apparently my nagging annoys her as much as it always annoyed Julie. Thank you for thinking of me though.

Your mom's got the right idea. You don't want to come to Colorado. It's lonely here. I just started a new school and everyone looks at me in this way I can't quite explain. Like I don't belong here. Or maybe it's just because I want to come home.

I miss you,

-Summer

***

Summer,

I do want to come to Colorado. You're there. That's all that matters. I'm still going to try to convince my mom. But you shouldn't feel lonely. You have me. And I'm sure you're going to make lots of friends at your new school.

My soccer team is going to the finals! I still can't even believe it. Once my season is over, I'm going to come visit.

I miss you more,

-Miles

***

Miles,