Her mother turned around to her with a smile of encouragement. But even an 8-year-old could see right through it.

        “He’s going to try Nina. But you know how busy his delivery schedule can be.”

        “I know….” Nina said with a sigh. She hopped out of her seat and quickly readjusted her bright red bow. After handing her half-finished plate to her mother, she shuffled out the front door, grabbing her book bag as she left the house. The bus was always there at exactly 7:30 am. Unfortunately, Preston had made it to the corner before her this morning. She sighed as she crossed the street.

        “So, Nina, are you excited for the dance?” Preston smiled evilly. She always had to rub it in Nina’s face. She was even dressed head to toe in a heart-patterned dress adorned with lace. A silver heart-studded tiara topped her curly blonde hair. Nina felt like her heart-decorated skirt paled in comparison. A long day might be in the cards for Nina. But she wasn’t going to let Preston be the start of it.

        “Yes! Me and my dad have a very special dance we’re going to do! We practiced it a lot too!” Nina retorted. Preston just rolled her eyes.