Prologue

Luisa LStat felt nervous as she sat down at the dinner table. Her little brother, Michael, and her little sister, Elaine, sat on either side. Their mother sat on the far end of the table, which was far too big for their family, just like everything in this house was. Well, said their mother, What are we waiting for? Lets eat. She clapped her hands. Bowls of soup for each of them appeared on the table, in front of them, as did plates of potato salad and mushrooms, and noodles that seemed to be wiggling. Elaine filled her spoon with the soup in front of her. Mother? My soup is watching me, she said, as an eyeball floated to the top of her bowl. Eat it, dear, Mother said, plainly. Its good for growing girls like you. Elaine turned to her sister, who nodded to her as an act of reassurance. Luisa cringed, though, when she found a toe in her soup. She cleared her throat, and looked at her mother, who appeared to be a mess of golden hair with a face. Mother never did bother about her appearance that much, nowadays. Long ago, she was a beautiful maiden with long, curly, brown hair, but she seemed to have grown out of that persona. Mother? Luisa said, as she put her spoon down. Yes, dear? said Mother. Do you know that little cottage we pass on the way to the city? Luisa asked. Yes. What about it? Do you know that no one lives there? Really, now? Mother said, not looking up from her plate. Poor thing. Luisa paused to take a bite of her potato salad. Elaine and Michael looked at her, not knowing what their sister was thinking. Mother? What is it now, Luisa? Mother said, irritably. asked. Luisa took a deep breath. Do you think we could buy that cottage? she Mother looked at her, then. Whatever for? she asked. Luisa looked at her siblings and said, For us three? Mother made a sour face. I just thought... she continued. Its just an idea, though. I thought, maybe, because Ill be of age tomorrow... Just maybe, I could move out with Michael and Elaine. She paused. If youll allow it, of course, she added.

Michael and Elaine looked at their sister in awe. They did not know she had been planning this, and Luisa saw in their eyes the same hope that she felt. She only hoped Mother would not let them down, an act Mother had perfected long ago. Mother squinted and said plainly, No. The siblings hearts sank, though at the back of their minds, they knew that she would give that answer, anyway. Why not? Luisa asked. Mother burst into a fit of laughter. Theres no point, child! she said. You have everything you need, here. Food. Shelter. A mother. Luisa paused. Mother had a point, of course. I just thought... she muttered. I thought we, three, need a little taste of independence. Mother laughed even harder. Finish your food, then go to bed, she said as she brushed her hair from her face. Luisa, she continued, while chewing on her meal. How shall we celebrate your birthday, tomorrow? I Aside from moving out, of course. The way Mother said moving out made Luisa feel sure she was mocking her. Can we go to the carnival? Luisa mumbled. She knew there was only a little chance that Mother would let them, but she asked, anyway. Theyre only going to be here for a week. Mother considered the idea for a moment. All right, then. Oh, thank you, thank you, Mother! Elaine burst out. Oh, you plan on coming, too? Mother asked, looking at the youngest child. It is your sisters birthday, you know, and not yours, she said, matter-of-factly. But Luisa put her hand on her brothers and sisters shoulder and turned to Mother. I want them to come, too, she said. Mother paused to think. She was no longer laughing. Fine, she said, and left the table. As she passed the children, she ran her index finger across the childrens shoulder blades. She slammed the door behind her when she left the room. A small hole opened beneath the doorknob and an eyeball appeared in it. The siblings looked away. Do you think I made her mad? Elaine asked. It doesnt matter, Elaine, said Michael. Shes always mad, anyway. Luisa shot an angry look at Michael. Thats ridiculous, she said. You know she loves us.

Michael slammed his fork into the table. Dont lie to me, Luisa! he shouted. Luisa pulled out the fork and put her hand on Michaels. Not here, she mouthed, and looked toward the eyeball on the door. Her brother nodded. Well, she continued, in an audible voice. Lets eat up. Elaine spooned an eyeball out of her soup. Luisa, do you want this? she asked. Luisa took one look at the eyeball and shook her head. I think its staring at you, said Michael. Or at you, Elaine told Michael, and giggled. They finished what was still deemed edible on their plates (If it looks at you, dont eat it.), and brought their empty plates to the kitchen. After washing the dishes, including Mothers, they found their way to the hall. Whats the house like, this time? asked Michael. Some sort of... I dont know, said Luisa. Come along, then. She led the way to their bedroom, making sure to keep her right hand on the wall on her right at all times. Their mother had told them before that the house liked to change. Sometimes it wanted to be a museum, sometimes it wanted to be a zoo. Once, the house wanted to be Atlantis, and Elaine nearly drowned herself to death. Mother had also told them that the only way to find their way around the house was to put their right hand on the right wall while walking around. That only lead them to the dining room, kitchen, and their bedroom, and they never knew what else was in that house. Finding their bathroom was always easy, because there was a door from their bedroom that led there. After a fifteen-minute walk, Luisa finally found their orange-painted bedroom door. Their room was the only room that stayed the same. Inside, there were three beds, one with blue sheets, one with pink sheets, and the other with purple sheets. All three faced a window that showed their ever-changing backyard. The walls were full of color, because Elaine loved painting on them. Luisa lay down on the bed closest to the door. She felt the purple sheet beneath her and stared at the ceiling. She liked observing their rooms ceiling. Years ago, Elaine had painted stars, up there, as she sat on Luisas shoulders. Those stars made her feel safe, as if nothing anyone, not even her mother, could do would hurt her and her siblings. Elaine climbed into the bed and sat beside her. She pushed a hairbrush into Luisas hand, who sat up, smiled and brushed her sisters hair. Michael was lying on his blue bed at the far end of the room, playing with his toy gun and shooting the stars above him. That toy gun had been his for so long, now, though it wasnt a surprise to Luisa that he hadnt outgrown it. There werent many things in this house, no matter how big it was, that he could tinker with, so even though that gun wasnt designed for a fourteen-year-old (It was the kind with a

cork tied from the inside of the barrel, and it was barely longer than his arm.), he had always kept it with him. Elaine had painted a target on the wall by Michaels bed, so that he could use it for target practice, not that he would ever need to shoot anyone. There was hardly anything to do in this house, anyway, so Luisa was grateful for that gun and Elaines paintings. It was what they did to pass the time. Michael shot walls, Elaine painted, and Luisa... Well, Luisa took care of her siblings and did whatever Mother told her to, and if she was in the mood for it, she would sew. Luisa listened to the pop! of Michaels gun and to the cork hitting Elaines painting. Youre getting better, she said. room. Of course I am! said Michael and grinned at her sisters from across the

If you really were good, you should be able to hit that target from here, said Elaine. Well, that wont do, said Michael. The strings too short. How are you ever going to shoot Mother if you dont practice hard enough? asked Elaine. Elaine! Luisa dropped her sisters brush. How could you ever think such a thing? I didnt! her sister replied, her eyes widened in horror with the realization of what she just said. Michael said he would! She covered her mouth, and her eyes were filling with tears. Before Luisa could say anything, Michael spoke up. You cant blame me! he said. Shes keeping us locked up here! Were being fed... Human parts, and, and Luisa ran to her brothers side and wrapped her arms around him. I know, I know, she whispered. But you cant deny that shes been good to us. What do you mean shes been good? Michael snapped back. Luisa thought for a moment. For one thing, at least we have food and a roof over our heads. Thats a good thing, isnt it? I suppose, Michael whispered, half to Luisa, but mostly to himself. But, Luisa, he said, in a much louder voice. What she did to us, before... Doesnt that make her bad? I mean, you cant deny that shes been good to us, but you cant deny that shes been cruel, too. What kind of mother Michael, stop, Luisa said. What? Michael asked, annoyed.

Luisa just looked at Elaine sitting in her bed, watching the two of them, and Michael understood. The two of them didnt want Elaine to know all the horrors this house held and Mother caused. At least, not yet. Whatever she did, Mother doesnt deserve to be shot, Michael, Luisa said, and walked to her little sister and put her arms around her. I dont think that will settle it. For one thing, you could end up in prison, and Elaine and I dont want that. Do we, Elaine? Nope, Elaine said. Nuh-uh. Michael lay on his bed. You have the right idea, then, he said. About moving out, I mean. Just leaving. I want to leave this house, too, Elaine muttered. I know, I know, said Luisa. All in good time. There were a lot of things she needed to explain, but not tonight, for there were things she, herself didnt understand. Come, then, she said. Lets get to bed. Tomorrows a big day! She tried to sound as cheerful as she could. Elaine snuggled up to her sister as they lay in bed. They stared at the painted stars on the ceiling. Outside, it thundered and began to rain.

Chapter 1 In Which The Children Discover an Onion

Mother called for a horse-drawn carriage to take them to the Carnival. It wasnt a long ride, but it felt as if it were, because Mother forbade them to even get a glimpse out the window. It was dark and miserable inside the carriage, but even just the thought of leaving the house gave the children comfort. As soon as they stepped out of the carriage, the children were taken aback by the enormity of the Carnival. Look at it, its huge! exclaimed Elaine. The Ferris Wheel is huge! She turned to Luisa. Can we ride it, Luisa? Can we? Luisa laughed. Of course, we can, she said, as they climbed down the carriage. She took Elaines hand and turned to Michael. You coming? Michael was still taking in everything around him. No, I think Ill walk around a bit, he said. Luisa nodded, and pushed a few coins into Michaels hand. Have yourself some fun, all right? she said, and ran off with Elaine, but not without kissing her mothers cheek. Mother looked down upon Michael. Well? she said. Michael looked at her and muttered, Ill see you later, I suppose. He ran towards the strongly fragrant tents. Mother shook her head.

Michael found himself among giant red tents, and the men by them enticed him to see what was inside them. The one he found most enthralling was the one with a sign that read Hall of Mirrors. He walked to the man by the mouth of the tent and handed him a coin. The man let him enter. Inside, there was a huge mirror with two tent flaps on either side. The mirror went from the top of the tent to the wooden floorboards beneath him. Michael stared at his reflection for a long time. He had never really bothered about what he looked like. He never really thought he looked like Luisa, but now, he saw that he did. They both had brown hair, except of course his was much shorter, and they both had the same olive-green eyes. Even their faces had the same structure, but he thought he didnt really look like Luisa. No one could ever carry the same poise Luisa had. Well, except maybe Elaine, if she grew a little taller.

He entered through one of the flaps and found himself facing replicas of himself. That put him off. He wanted to exit through the flap, but when he turned around to look for it, he only found another image of himself. His heart started to race. What if he couldnt make it out? Keep calm, he whispered to himself. He put his arms forward and felt his way through a maze of mirrors. Lucky thing the house never wanted to be like this, he thought. He felt dizzy from seeing himself in all directions. He almost had a heart attack when he thought he saw Mothers reflection in the mirrors. When he turned around to see if she was following him, he hit his head on one of the mirrors. His mother had disappeared. When he found his way out of the maze, he had hoped he discovered the way out of the tent. Instead, he found himself in another hall. And of course, there were more mirrors, all of them lined up against one wall. Michael walked up to one of them, expecting to see himself. The mirror didnt reflect him, though. The striped walls of the tent behind them were perfectly clear in the mirror, but he wasnt there. He looked down at his body to see if he really was there. Yes, he was still there. Maybe he had turned into a ghost? He shrugged his shoulders and moved to the next mirror. He was in this one, and he felt certain he was still alive, except his appearance had changed. He was shorter and stouter, and in the next one, he was extremely tall and thin. He felt confused. He started to dislike mirrors, but it was the next one that got him. When he looked into the mirror, he saw an awfully terrifying beast standing behind him. His heart nearly stopped as he ran, screaming, down the wall of mirrors, not even bothering to look into the rest. He didnt even care to check whether the beast was real, which, of course, it wasnt. He ran through the tent flap, found himself in front of the huge mirror, and left through the mouth of the tent. He felt as if the beast were still following him, so he continued to run, until he ran straight into the counter of a wooden stall. Oof! A freckled, thin nosed face wearing a hat popped up from beneath the other side of the counter. Whoa, there! said a young man, about Luisas age, with black, flat hair. Slow down o youll hurt you-self! Sorry, muttered Michael, attempting to catch his breath. The young man jumped over the counter and patted Michael on the back. You aight, boy? he asked. Michael nodded. Now, what sorta thing would scare a young man such as you-self, like that, eh? Michael was still panting and couldnt reply. Clowns? Michael shook his head. No, eh? Balloons? Balloons aint scary! Not balloons! Michael said in between his deep breaths. Hall of... Hall of mirrors... Ah yes! exclaimed the young man. I wet me pants in there, when I was a kid! He laughed. You saw the mirror with the beast in it, dint you? Michael nodded. Yeah, yeah, I was scared of that, too! I spose you need some way to get rid of any beast on your trail, eh?

Michael relaxed a bit. I suppose, so, he said. The young man sat on the countertop and pulled something out from the stall. Hold this for me, wouldya? He handed Michael a bow. Theys should be here, somewhere, he continued. Ah, here they are! He took out three arrows and gave them to Michael. Course you need to practice! He stood next to Michael and pointed toward something inside the stall. You see that? You know what that is? Of course, I know what that is! said Michael. Thats a goal. My sister painted one on my wall so I can practice my aim. Im pretty good with a gun. Of course, it isnt a real gun, but Im good at it nonetheless. I bet you are! said the young man. But are you good with a bow and arrow? Very different thing, it is. Can I try it out? Ive never done, before, and Ive only read about them in books. Michael pulled the string on the bow. Course you can! A penny for three tries. Oh, right, of course. Michael took a coin from his pocket and handed it to the young man. He loaded the bow and positioned himself the way he saw archers did in his books. Oh, and one more thing, eh! said the young man. Michael turned to him. Whoa, careful where you point that thing, boy! Oh, sorry, said Michael as he lowered the arrow. Thas better, aint it? Now, where was we? Ah, right! You can choose anything from that shelf for three hits in a row. There ya go. Michael nodded and positioned himself as before. He looked at the target in front of him. It wasnt that far, really, but Michael didnt feel too confident in himself. He even felt nervous, though there was nothing at stake. He was surprised when he did hit the target three times in a row, though not in the center. Lovely, lovely! exclaimed the young man, as he clapped his hands. Now, anything from that shelf? Michael scanned the shelf for anything that he might want, and when he couldnt find anything that interested him, he decided to just get a giant stuffed toy bear for Elaine. Yes, yes, good choice, aint it? said the young man. As he pulled the bear from the shelf, a small, shiny object fell to the floor. Oops, he said as he picked it up. Whats that? asked Michael. The young man turned it in his hands and scratched his head. I got no idea, to be honest, he said.

Can I win it? Spose so. Michael handed him another coin and aimed his arrow. He did even better than the first time. His last arrow hit the bulls eye. Oi, look, ol Fetch! shouted the young man to someone behind the stall. This young mans a fine archer aint he? When no one replied, he turned to Michael. Must be asleep, the ol bugger. Always is. Still, he pays me, so I cant complain. He handed Michael the object. Say, whats your name? Michael, he replied. Michael LStat. The young mans eyes widened, whether in amazement or in horror, Michael did not know. Aight, then he said, his brow furrowed. You take you-self some care, eh? I will, said Michael.

Mother sat on a bench by the entrance to the carnival. She took one look at her pocket watch and thought that it was time for the children to come back. She clapped her hands, once. All in a blink, her daughters appeared beside her on the bench. Its over already? asked Elaine. But we were on top of the Ferris Wheel! How did we She looked at her mother and whispered, Oh. Luisa squeezed her sisters hand and looked around her. Wheres Michael? she asked. Mother gasped. She clapped her hands, once. Nothing happened. She snapped her fingers. Again, nothing happened. Luisa and Elaine stared at her. Something was wrong. Something was very wrong. Go look for him, she said to her daughters, who quickly ran off. The small one was saying something about buying a balloon. Mother sniffed the air. That direction. The boy was in that direction, towards the men walking on stilts. She walked towards the boy, her heart racing in her chest. Something was terribly wrong. She passed two drunk men who threw insults at her. Simon, Simon! said one of them. Call the zookeeper, the beasts escaped! The two men roared with laughter. dead. Mother whispered a spell in her head. The two men were found the next day

She found the boy sitting alone on a bench. He was looking at something he held in his hand, and an overstuffed bear sat beside him. She snatched whatever the

boy was holding in his hand, and when she saw what it was, she shrieked. Where did you get this? she said in a horrible voice, and grabbed the boy by his collar. I won it, said the boy, as calmly as he could, though his heart was beating fast in his chest. From the archery stall. She put the boy down and said, You dont need this. She left the boy on the bench, and knew that he wouldnt dare follow her. She passed Old Fetchs stall where a young man stood for him. Fetch was probably asleep in his caravan, then. True enough, he was sleeping by his caravan door with his feet resting on an upside down bucket. Wake up, you dimwit! she said. He did not stir. She sighed and conjured a bucket of water in her hand. She threw the contents of the bucket at Old Fetchs face. Old Fetch coughed and sputtered. What was that for, eh? he said, and when he saw who exactly he was talking to, he muttered, Oh. I thought I told you to keep this away from here, she said and threw the object the boy was holding into Old Fetchs face. Howd you get this? he said, scratching his head. I should be asking you. Just keep it away, she said, and with that, she left. Old Fetch turned the object in his hands. Gaudio! said. The boy came running to him, his hat almost flying off his head. Yessir? he

Put this away, said Old Fetch, dismissively. He gave the object to his servant. Oh, and dont leave the stall, he added. But, you called me sir and He waved his hand to brush the boy off. Go away. Yessir! said Gaudio, and ran back to the stall. When he saw what was in his hand, he scratched his head.

Michael hugged the giant bear he got for Elaine. He sat alone on the bench, praying to God that his mother would not come back. Michael! Luisa and Elaine came running towards him, the hems of their dresses and their shoes soaked in mud. Elaine had a balloon tied to her wrist. Whats that? she asked him, pointing to the bear that was bigger than her. Its for you, he said and patted her head.

Wheres Mother? asked Luisa. I dont know, and I dont want to know, Michael replied. Luisa laughed. Come along, then, she said. hand. They walked past the clowns, the balloons, and the lions, walking hand in Oi! someone called behind them. You boy, with the good aim! The children turned to the voice calling them. It was the young man who gave Michael the teddy bear. He sat behind the countertop of his stall. This is yours, I believe, he said, and handed Michael the object he won earlier that day. Whats that? Elaine asked. I dont know really, said Michael. I won it. I just thought it looked pretty. Mother was afraid when she saw that I had it. She mustve given it back to you, he said and turned to the young man. Luisa raised her eyebrows and ushered her siblings into the stall. She sat beneath the counter and so did her siblings. She pulled the young mans scarf to let him sit with them. Whats your name? she asked. Gaudio, he replied, his hand on his hat. Thats a funny name, Elaine remarked. Right, said Luisa. Gaudio, do you know what this is? She took the object from her brother. Nope, he said. Ive seen it many times, before, but I dont know what it is. And you speak funny, Elaine added. Luisa giggled and shushed her sister. She agreed, though. Gaudio had an accent that sounded like it didnt really know where it was from. I dont think it really matters, though, Luisa, Michael said. Its just... a trinket. I think it looks like an onion, said Elaine. No, Michael, Luisa said, ignoring Elaine. If Mother doesnt want us to have it, it must mean something. Like what, then? Michael said. Luisa thought for a moment. I dont know, she said. But Im sure it means something.

Luisa, Mother doesnt want us to go out of the house, said Elaine. Do you think that means something? Of course, it does she replied. I just dont know what, exactly. They sat in silence. Mother doesnt like my wearing striped socks, Michael whispered to himself. Thats because they look tacky, Elaine said. They do not! Michael exclaimed. Yes, they do! They do not! Luisa hardly heard her siblings quarreling beside her. She was staring at the object in her palm. An onion, thats what Elaine had called it. A golden Onion. Yes, thats what they would call it. There was a voice inside it, whispering her name. It wasnt a threatening voice. In fact, it was exactly the opposite of that. The voice was calming, and it almost sounded like a whispered song. Are you aight? Gaudios voice broke her trance. two! What? she asked, and saw that her siblings were quarreling. Shush, you Luisa, tell Elaine my striped socks are not tacky, Michael pleaded. Not that again, Michael! You know Mother doesnt like it when you wear those! Luisa replied. The same way she doesnt want us to have that? Elaine pointed to the Onion. You confuse me, Luisa. You dont want Michael wearing his tacky, striped socks, because Mother doesnt want him to. Yet, somehow, its fine by you to keep that thing even if Mother doesnt want us to. Id keep that thing if only to annoy Mother, Michael said. What if she gets mad? Elaine asked. Shes always mad, anyways, Michael said, calmly, and crossed his arms. Luisa looked at her siblings, the voice still ringing in her head. You think we should keep it, Michael? she asked. Yes, he replied almost instantly. I think we should, too, Elaine added. Its pretty. And Michaels right, shes always mad, anyways.

Good, then its decided, Luisa said. But we cant take it home today. Mother will know. Im sure shell know. Her siblings nodded in agreement. said it. Youll come back, then? Gaudio asked, with a hint of hope in the way he We cant, Michael said. Mother never lets us leave the house. Your mother sounds awful, Gaudio remarked, though he was hardly surprised. Oh, she is, Elaine said. But she is our Mother. Gaudio nodded. I see, he said. Well, I spose I could take it to ya. The children just looked at him in awe. He paused for a moment to consider his thoughts. Finally, though hesitantly, he said, Ill do it. Ill take it to ya. Course, itll be hard to get away from Ol Fetch but Luisa smiled, and said, Thank you, Gaudio! She gave him an embrace. Nothin to thank me for, he said. Course I might be askin for somethin in return. Luisa paused. Oh, she said. I see. She looked at her siblings who nodded at her. What might it be? I dunno, yet, he said. Well see, I think. Luisa nodded. She felt rather skeptical. They had nothing to offer him, but she took her chance, anyway. Now, our house is on Oh, I know where your house is! Gaudio said, proudly. Big LStat house, aight? The children nodded. When you need it, thats the question. What is it today, Michael? Luisa asked. Saturday, her brother replied, plainly. Right, she said. Take it to our house on Monday at four oclock. Michael and Elaine will be having their classes with Mother, then, and Motherll think Im alone in our bedroom. Dont come in. Just wait by the gate. Thats all very well, Gaudio said. But I dont know how to tell if its four oclock. No watch, see? Oh, Luisa said. She put her hand in her pocket and fished out her pocket watch. Use this, she said and handed it to Gaudio, who looked at it, blankly. You do know how to read this, dont you? she asked. Gaudio shook his head to say no, which was a lie, of course, though he barely realized he was lying.

See this little hand, here? Luisa said. Once this points to four you do know what four is right? Gaudio nodded. Once this points to four, and the big hand points to twelve, youll know its four oclock. He nodded, once again. You keep it safe, all right? she added. I will, he replied, though if she was talking about the pocket watch or the Onion, he did not know. He figured she mustve meant both. Come along, then, Luisa said. Motherll be looking for us. now. I dont think so, said Michael. If she was, wed be right by her side by

His sister nodded. Youre right, she said. Well just have to look for her then. As she and her siblings walked away, hand in hand, she turned to Gaudio, smiled and mouthed the words, Thank you.

Chapter 2 In Which Luisa Receives a Reprimand and a Rather Valuable Present

As soon as the LStats arrived home, Mother ordered them to wash up for dinner. They ran up to their room without question. Mother says to dress nicely for dinner, tonight, Luisa said. Black? Michael asked. Luisa opened Elaines closet and shook her head. Its my birthday, remember? she said. I want you to wear the most colorful clothes you have. Michael opened his mouth to say something, but Luisa spoke first. Yes, I give you permission to wear your striped socks. Michael said, Yes! and began to rummage his closet for his beloved socks. Luisa turned to Elaine, who was sitting beside the bear Michael gave her, on her bed. Her balloon floated to the ceiling. Are you all right, Elaine? she asked. Elaine looked up at her sister and sighed. Luisa sat on the bed beside her. Whats wrong? she asked. I forgot to get you a present. Luisa smiled and patted her sisters hair. Is that it? she said. Its perfectly fine. You and Michael had fun at the Carnival, today, and thats all I really wanted. Elaine smiled faintly as her sister planted a kiss on her forehead. Now, lets get you into a pretty dress, shall we? She picked up a brush and sat her sister on her lap. As soon as the three were well-dressed and ready, they made their way to the dining hall, careful to keep their right hands on the right wall at all times. The house had decorated itself with black balloons donning unhappy faces and banners that seemed to have blood smeared all over them. The place reeked of dead mice and other unearthly things. Youd think we were celebrating Halloween, instead of Luisas birthday, Michael remarked. The children seemed out of place, with their colorful clothes. Luisa wore a green blouse and a mustard yellow skirt; Michael wore a red sweater, and he rolled up his trousers to show off his striped socks; Elaine wore a blue dress and a bow in her hair. Mother would soon disapprove of the way they dressed, but it didnt matter to the children. The dining hall had also been decorated with lonely-faced balloons and pumpkins (Luisa was fond of the pumpkins, but the balloons terrified her). Mother

sat at the far end of the table, already sipping on her tea, or whatever it was in her teacup. Do you like what I did with the house, Luisa? she asked. Yes, Mother, its lovely, Luisa lied. She and her siblings sat at the other end of the table, but they could still smell Mothers ghastly perfume. Mother clapped her hands and food appeared on the table. Lets eat, then, she said. Elaine picked up her spoon and fished out a cockroach in her soup. When it moved, she dropped her spoon and stood up, her face paled with horror. Luisa ran to her side and put her arms around her. The cockroach scuttled across the table to Michael, who slammed his plate on it and killed it. Mother laughed and clapped her hands ecstatically. Wonderful, wonderful! she said, almost to herself. The children looked at her in awe. Mother! Luisa exclaimed with tears in her eyes. We should go, she muttered. No! Whatever happiness was in Mothers face was now gone. Sit down! she shrieked in her panicking voice. The children did so without meaning to. Mother sighed and said, Eat your food, in a much calmer voice. Luisa covered her face with her hands. Are you all right? Elaine whispered to her. Im fine, Luisa, really. I was just... Startled. Thats all. Luisa looked up, faked a smile and nodded. She and her siblings hardly ate any of the food given to them that night, save for the large cake Mother served them. It tasted fine, though that was mainly because the children tried not to think what Mother put in it. When dinner was over, Mother beckoned to Luisa to follow her. Elaine and Michael looked at their sister, who looked as if she could handle no more business with their Mother. Mother led her down a long hall, onto a lift, which Luisa almost felt sure was never there before, down another hall, up a flight of stairs, and through a black door, into Mothers study. This was nowhere the children had ever been to, before. Have a seat. Mother pointed to a chair that was too far from her desk. She sat behind her desk and put on her glasses. I will pretend what occurred at dinner tonight, never happened. Luisa sat with her hands folded neatly on her lap. She gulped. Mother had never let any of them into her study, before, and she was certain what was coming would be something awful. Mother opened a jar and took out a squirming cockroach. Would you like one? she asked, offering it to Luisa, who cringed and shook her head. Mother

shrugged and put the cockroach in her mouth. I am not pleased with you and your siblings, Luisa, she said, plainly. I know, and Im The three of you have been pushing your luck. Mother popped another living insect in her mouth. It was probably a grasshopper. Youre lucky its your birthday. Had it been any other day, I wouldve thrown you three in the dungeon. What exactly did we do wrong, Mother? Mother rolled her eyes and picked up a pen. Do I need to write you a list? she asked in her annoyed voice. Begging to go to the Carnival? You still let us go. Tonights dinner! You said youd ignore that! Your brother having that thing in his possession! What thing? Mother sighed and said, Ignorance is bliss. She ran her fingers through her golden hair. But it leads to silly arguments like this. She stood up. Just know that as the eldest child, it is your responsibility to keep a tight rein on your siblings. Do you understand me? Luisa bowed her head and muttered, Yes, Mother. And should any of you three step another toe out of line, Mother continued. I will throw the little one out, alone on the street. You Luisa stood up, quickly walked to Mothers desk and brought her hand down onto the desk. You wouldnt, she sighed, trying to hold back tears. You know perfectly well that I would. Shes only eight years old! Luisa shouted in her mothers face. Sit down! Mother beckoned for the chair to come closer. Luisa fell into the chair that seemed to want to crush her chest into the desk. She could barely breathe. Do you understand me now, Luisa? Mother asked. When she didnt reply, the chair pushed her harder into the desk. Do you understand? Yes, Mother. Good.

The chair pulled Luisa back, a few feet from the desk. Luisa caught her breath. I have something for you, Mother said. Please, just let me go, Luisa thought. Mother took a small box from her drawer and placed on Luisas lap. Go on, then, she said. Open it. Luisa looked at the box. It was a gray one, and had a silver ribbon tied around it. She was afraid of what it would contain, but she pulled the ribbon, nonetheless, and lifted the lid. Inside the box was a small, silver key. Thank you, Mother, she muttered. Its lovely. You havent even asked me what it is, child. Luisa cleared her throat. What is it? Its a key I can see that. Mother sighed. Its a key that will take you out of the house, safely, she continued. And, youre giving me this? Yes, I am, Mother said, plainly. Luisa put the key back in its box. Thank you, Mother, she said. Of course, this gift can only be used by you, Mother continued. Do you understand? Luisa nodded. No siblings involved. I will find out if they use it, child. Luisa nodded and said, I understand. Good. Mother opened her jar of insects and put another insect in her mouth. Now, I must ask you to come with me to the Market on Wednesday. Yes, Mother. Good, she said, again. That is all. You may go. Luisa left through the black door and found her way to their bedroom. Michael and Elaine looked at her when she came in. What did she say? Michael asked. Luisa shook her head. She just gave me this, she said, and showed them the key. She told them what it was for, and her siblings looked at it in amazement. You, two cant use it, though.

Their smiles faded. Thats alright, I suppose, said Michael. At least, you wont have a hard time finding the gate when you meet up with Gaudio. Luisa had forgotten about that. Right, she said. Go to bed, you, two. They nodded and tucked themselves in to bed. Elaine lay in her older sisters bed, expecting to have someone to hold her as she slept. Luisa looked at her sister and went to the bathroom. She brushed her teeth and washed her face. She stared at her reflection in the mirror, for a while, wondering if she really was Luisa LStat, praying that she wasnt. She knelt in front of the toilet and coughed up what little she had for dinner.

Chapter 3 In Which Gaudio Pirelli Yearns for Comfort (And So Does Luisa)

Old Fetch had taken the Onion back to his caravan, and Gaudio was starting to feel anxious as the little hand on Luisa LStats pocket watch neared the number four. Old Fetch slept in his usual spot by his caravan door. Gaudio decided he would have to climb in through the tiny window and take the Onion inside the caravan. He sighed and placed an upside down bucket beneath the window. He placed his foot on top of it, hoping it would hold him. He hoisted himself onto the window ledge and climbed in, or rather fell in and made a great noise. Oof! he said. Oi! Old Fetch called from outside. Whats goin on in there? Gaudio placed a chair by the door and began to rummage through the caravan for the Onion. There it was, under Fetchs filthy pillow. The moment he took it, Old Fetch burst through the door. Whatcha doin in here, you filthy rat? he shouted. He brought his fist down on Gaudios face and missed merely an inch. Gaudio ducked beneath Old Fetchs arms, took the rope on Old Fetchs desk for good measure, and ran through the open door.

As soon as Michael and Elaine headed for their dreaded class with Mother, Luisa changed into her blouse and skirt and took out the key Mother had given her. She put on her stockings and shoes, and brought a book in her satchel, just in case Gaudio would come late. When she walked to their orange bedroom door, she noticed a keyhole that was never there before. She looked at the key in her hand and turned it in the keyhole. The door swung open and led into a hallway. Luisa looked out. No one else was there. She walked down the long hallway, hoping that she was going the right way. Something in her told her she was. There were doors along the hallway, but she didnt bother opening them, except for one. A delicious smell wafted through this door. Luisa opened it and found herself in a kitchen, but not the one where she and her siblings washed the dishes. This one was much cleaner, and the food here looked much more edible than the ones Mother always served them. She wondered how it was possible for a kitchen like this to exist in Mother LStats house.

At the center of the kitchen was a table, and on top of this table was a basket of bread. She took out her handkerchief and wrapped a small loaf of bread in it. She put it in her satchel and saw on the clock hanging on the wall that it was five minutes before four. Luisa returned to the hall and walked along it. At the end there was a large door which she walked through. She found herself in a garden, where it was Autumn. She wondered if it really was Autumn, or if the house just wanted it to be. She decided the house would never want to be something as beautiful as Fall. She could see the large, golden gate. Gaudio wasnt there, yet. What if he decided he wouldnt come? She found a swing by the gate and sat there. She would wait a little longer. She tried reading the book she brought, but found that she could barely focus, hoping that Gaudio would turn up sooner. She closed her book when she heard someone shouting down the road outside the gate. Someone was struggling. She held on to the bars of the gate trying to see whoever it was. Calm down, will ya? said a voice. It was Gaudios! I just need to deliver this thing to a lady! a bow. He walked to the gate and when he saw Luisa, he took of his hat and gave her Luisa laughed. I almost thought you werent coming, she said. I dont break my promises, LStat. There was something about the way Gaudio said LStat that made Luisa cringe. Im gonna beat the hell outta ya, Pirelli! someone shouted. Luisa looked down the road. Oh, thas just Old Fetch, Gaudio said. Nothin to worry bout. I tied him up to a tree, so Thats not a very nice thing to do, Luisa said. Scuse me? Gaudio said, jokingly. Did you not hear what he just said? Hes going to beat the hell outta me! Luisas smile faded. Oh, she whispered. I am risking my life to bring you this, LStat, he said, as he held out the Onion on his palm. Luisa looked at Gaudio then at the Onion. She heard the voices, again. They were calling her. Did you hear that? she asked Gaudio. Gaudio narrowed his eyes and shook his head. Are you aight? he asked. Luisa looked at the Onion and nodded. He shrugged his shoulders. Here ya go, then, he said. He put the Onion in Luisas hand through the bars of the gate. Have a great day.

Thank you, Luisa said, as she put the Onion in her pocket. Now, what will you be asking from me? Gaudio paused. I havent thought about that, to be honest, he said. Gimme a little time to think bout it? All right. While Gaudio thought, Luisa stared into the distance. She could hear the voice coming from her pocket. Gaudio looked at her as he thought. You know what, he said. Maybe we should call it quits. Luisa smiled, nodded and thanked him again. They turned away from the gate and walked in different directions, but Gaudio stopped in his tracks and turned to Luisa. I dont want to be beaten, again, he called after her. Luisa turned and walked to the gate. Im sorry, she said. She contemplated whether she should give him back the Onion, but she and her siblings needed it. For what, exactly? To annoy their mother? Was that worth having Gaudio beaten? Im sorry, she said again, and grabbed the bars of the gate. Gaudio walked to the gate and took her hands. Please, Luisa, he said. Her name sounded funny in his awkward accent. Please dont let him beat me. Maybe you should keep him tied up, she said. Gaudio mimicked her voice. Thats not a very nice thing to do, he said. Luisa attempted to smile, but it faded away, quickly. Im sorry. Gaudio was making things harder for her, and she hated him for it. I cant You could, at least... Gaudio thought for a moment. Luisa hoped he wouldnt ask for the Onion. Delay it? Luisa sighed with relief, and paused. She took out her key and opened the gate. Come on in, then, she said. She didnt even bother to think if Mother would approve of what she was doing. Gaudio paused to look at Luisa before passing through the gate. When he saw the house, he whistled. Thats a big house, you got there, he said. Its a sad house, Luisa remarked. Pirelli! they heard Old Fetch shout from outside. Luisa looked at Gaudio who cringed. Maybe we should go in further? she asked. Gaudio nodded. Luisa and Gaudio explored the garden. She didnt dare take Gaudio into the house. What she was doing now was risky enough. They stopped to sit by a fountain. Luisa thought it was too beautiful for the house. Are you hungry? Luisa asked.

Starvin, Gaudio said in a shy voice. Luisa smiled and took out a loaf of bread. She handed it to Gaudio, who sniffed it first. He looked at the bread, skeptically, then decided that his hunger was stronger than whatever was bothering him. Mm, cheese bread, he said. Luisa smiled. You know, I wouldnt mind livin in a house like this, he said between mouthfuls of bread. I wouldnt wish it upon anybody, Luisa whispered. Especially not you, Gaudio. Why not? Because its a miserable house, thats why, said Luisa. Nah, its not that bad, Gaudio said. Well, you just dont understand! Luisa shouted and covered her mouth in horror. She hoped Mother did not hear her. She covered her face. Im sorry, Gaudio, she whispered. Gaudio put the bread in his lap and patted Luisas back. There, there, he said. Its aight. Evrythinll be just fine. This wasnt the same, determined Luisa he met at the Carnival the other day. Thats the thing, Luisa said. Nothing will ever be alright. Thats just bad thinkin, Gaudio said. But I have to be strong, Luisa said, almost to herself. For Michael and Elaine. She wiped her tears away and looked at Gaudio. Why wont you ever leave this house? Gaudio asked. Mother, Luisa said. She... She wont let us, unless its to do her bidding. But the other day, at the Carnival It was my birthday, that day, Luisa said. Oh, Gaudio said. They sat in silence. Gaudio had lost his appetite. Its a shame, really, he said. Not leaving the house, I mean. I mean, I dont have a permanent home, but Old Fetch and I, were always travellin with the Carnival, and I think thats much better than being stuck ere. He wondered if what he was saying made things worse, so he looked at Luisa, who seemed to be enjoying his company. Where have you been, then? she asked.

Oh, lots o places, he said. Once, we went to this town where everything cost too much. Ol Fetch always forgot to buy me food their. He took a bite of his bread. Say, this bread aint poisoned, is it? Gaudio, I would never think of poisoning you! Luisa exclaimed, though her heart raced because she did not know whether it was poisoned or not. I know, I know, he said. Cant be too vigilant, enough, eh? There was this other place, He bit the bread. Where people wore crazy outfits everyday. And I mean crazier than what youd see at the Carnival. It was crazy. Luisa laughed. Oh! And once we held a carnival at Scully Beach! You ever been to Scully Beach? Luisa shook her head. No? It aint too far from here. Its just on the other side of the city, about an hours ride from here. Thats the best place for me, really. Id settle there, if I had a choice. Whats it like? Oh, its brilliant! he said. The suns always high, and at night, the moon just shines so beautifully! You wouldnt even bother with the heat, because you can go a-swimmin anytime you want! The waters just lovely and perfectly blue and the seagulls oh the seagulls! they are such amazing creatures! And I doubt youd ever go hungry, because you could go fishin! And at night, you can just lie on the sand and look up at the stars. Gaudio looked up at the sky, almost expecting to see the stars. It sounds lovely, Luisa said, plainly. She wondered if the stars of Scully Beach were much better than the ones Elaine had painted on their ceiling. It definitely is. Tonight, when Old Fetch is beating me with his cane, Ill be thinkin of Scully Beach. Gaudio looked at Luisa and noticed that her smile had faded away. Are you aight? he asked. Luisa nodded. Im fine, she said. Whats it like? Working at a carnival, I mean. You get tired of it after a while. Do you, really? asked Luisa. I dont think I would. I dont know, Gaudio said. Maybe its just me. Havin Ol Fetch for a boss and all. Oh. Gaudio felt he had let her down. She mustve expected another exciting story. But it still is fun, sometimes! he added. Seeing all those happy children and all that. And I never get sick of the smell of cottn candy. And seeing balloons float away, now thats a sight to see. Although I do feel sorry for the poor bugger who accidentally let go of is balloon. Its just, sometimes I imagine Im a balloon. Sometimes I feel like Im being deflated, other times I think Im gonna pop. And some days, I just pray that a poor bugger sets me free.

Thats me, too, I suppose, Luisa muttered. Sometimes, there are pretty girls, too, Gaudio continued. Sometimes they pretend to like me, but I can see its all just an act. Nobody really likes me. Once, we stayed at this town for an entire month, and there was this girl who came up to our stall everyday. Shed come by an talk to me and sometimes, Ol Fetch would get mad. Shed come anyway, but when the time came for us to leave, she didnt even say goodbye. She probably didnt really like me. Whats to like, eh? I like you, Luisa said. And Im sure so do Elaine and Michael. But you, Gaudio said. You and your siblings are different. In what way? Gaudio scratched his head. I dunno, he said. But you are. Youre special. way. Mother says that, too, Luisa said. But I dont think she means it in good Well, she should, Gaudio said. They sat in silence, again. Gaudio munched on his bread and offered some of it to Luisa, who declined and patted her bag to say she had more in it. You know, Gaudio said to break the silence. You, LStats aint so bad. You and your siblings, of course. What do you mean? I spose none of the stories Ive heard about you were true. Youve heard stories about us? There are stories about us? Oh, yes, lots! Gaudio said. The carnival would come and go through this town, oftn, and sometimes, wed pass this house, and people would tell scary stories about it. The clowns would just make jokes about it, though. What do they say? Oh, you know, Gaudio continued. Theyd wear their red noses and say the people who lived there had noses like theirs, except they didnt come off like the ones they wore. No, no, Luisa said. Not the clowns. What did they say in the stories? Oh, right, Gaudio said. Well, theres this one that says that this place is full of ghosts, but the one they always, always tell is the one about the hag living here who killed those who trespassed here and made her children eat the bodies. Luisa gasped, and the tears welled in her eyes. Oh, dont worry! Im sure they dont mean youre the hag. I think they mean your mothers the hag.

Luisa put her hands over Gaudios mouth. No, Gaudio! she said. Dont say that. Not here. She might hear you. Gaudio looked at her and nodded. You should go, she added. Youre right, he replied, though it seemed he still wanted to stay. Its getting late, and Old Fetchll be getting all numb from bein tied up. They walked to the gate, and Luisa opened it with her key. Im sorry, she said. About the beating. She figured it would be better for Gaudio to be beaten than to be eaten. Gaudio had nothing to say to that so he just nodded. Oh, wait! he said. He pulled out Luisas pocket watch from his pocket. This is yours. Luisa smiled and thanked him. Will I see you again? Gaudio asked. I doubt that, she replied and closed the gate, but Gaudio took her hand. Please? he said. Make me look forward to something after my beating, so that I dont pray to God that he just kills me, instead. She wondered whether he meant that as a joke or not. Gaudio, I He squeezed her hand, gently and looked into her eyes. Luisa tried to hold his gaze without changing her mind, but she couldnt help it. On Wednesday, she said. Mothers taking me to the Market. Gaudio nodded. Ill see you there, then, he said, smiled at her then skipped back, singing a silly tune quite loudly, to wherever he tied up his master.

Chapter 4 In Which Memories That Should Have Long Been Forgotten Are Relived

Luisa closed the front door behind her. She leaned her back against the door and sighed. It was a crazy thing for her to promise Gaudio shed meet him, again. She would probably only let him down. But he seemed so happy when she agreed to meet him. She sighed, again, and began to walk down the hall. A hand reached for her collar through one of the doors and pulled her through it. Give me your satchel! Mothers shrieking voice hurt Luisas ears. Leave me alone! Luisa shouted, struggling to keep Mothers hands off her satchel, and failed miserably. Mother threw the contents of her satchel onto the floor, and searched frantically through it. Luisas heart beat too fast in her chest. When Mother did not find what she was looking for, she dropped the satchel. She turned her pale face to Luisa and pointed her finger. Her eyes widened. You let him get away! she shrieked. What? Luisa asked in confusion. She meant Gaudio. She wasnt looking for the Onion, after all. And you stole bread! I didnt mean to Mother grabbed a handful of Luisas hair and pulled her into the hallway that had changed. Mother led her down the hallway while she scratched the red wallpaper with her long fingernails. Mother, stop! She ignored her daughter and led her down a long flight of stairs. It was starting to get cold and dark. Luisas screams and Mothers frantic steps echoed through the walls. They reached a large door that was familiar to Luisa. Mother reached for a key in her pocket with her shaky hands. It was an ugly key that looked more like a bone. She put it in the keyhole and threw Luisa into the dark room. Mother, please, dont! Think about what youve done, Luisa! Mother shrieked and closed the door with a loud bang. Luisa hit the door with her fists. Mother, please! she shouted.

A peephole opened and Luisa saw Mothers bloodshot eyes. What do you want? she shrieked. Luisa sat on the cold, stone floor, her hands on her lap. Just... Just dont hurt them... Michael and Elaine, I mean. Hmph. Mother closed the peephole, and the darkness enveloped Luisa. Luisa felt her way into the darkness. She found the corner of the room and sat there with her arms wrapped around her knees. The screams she made in this room as a child echoed in her ears. They sounded so real and deafening, she had to cover her ears. There wasnt much difference when she closed or opened her eyes. The darkness was still there. How long did Mother expect her to stay in this place, this time? She wrapped her arms around her shoulders. She remembered this place. She remembered it well. Her stomach lurched as the scenes played in her head. She didnt want to remember. She wanted to forget. Perhaps her memory didnt serve her well, but this room was much worse than she thought. In her mind, she had always thought she knew exactly what the room looked like: cobblestone walls, floors and ceilings, low ceilings, no windows, cobwebs with dead spiders and insects in the corners. She wondered how that image ever entered her head because now, she realized her eyes would not adjust to the darkness. She could see nothing, at all, not even her hands if she put them right in front of her eyes. She touched her eyelids to check if her eyes had been closed all along. No, theyve been open, and tears were running down from them. She could almost hear each tear fall from her eyes. She heard her heavy breathing and tried to calm herself down. Everything will be all right, she said. Her voice echoed onto the walls and made an eerie sound that scared her. She decided not to talk, anymore. She tried to remember how she survived the endless hours in this room before. Happy thoughts, thats how. She racked her brains for any happy thought she might have. None? That hardly surprised her. But the other day at the Carnival. That was fun, wasnt it? Elaine laughing at the top of the Ferris Wheel? Her joy when she bought a balloon? But that was the thing with Elaine. Simple things made her happy, but even the smallest things made her upset. Elaines stars. Michael when hes playing with his gun. That cottage she wanted to move into. The way Elaine always snuggles up to her. Michaels striped socks. Only a little time had passed and she was already running out of good ideas. Elaines yellow hair. Michael being brotherly. Elaines snotty remarks. Michaels brilliant aim.

What else? Gaudios silly accent. The way her name sounds when Gaudio says it. Gaudios beloved beach. Scully Beach was it? Gaudio will be beaten up, tonight. No, dont think about that. Or it could be happening, right now. Stop that. And it was her fault. No! Her own voice surprised her. Was she going insane? Happy thoughts. Elaines yellow hair. Michaels brilliant aim. The way her name sounds when Gaudio says it. Luisa. What was that? Nothing. Just her imagination. Scully Beach. Stars. Striped Socks. Name. Luisa. She gasped. There was a voice. It really was there. Im not crazy! she shouted at the darkness. We know. She covered her mouth. Her head was beginning to throb. There was someone talking to her. Now, she really felt she was crazy. She hugged herself tighter and began to sob. The echoes hurt her ears, but she couldnt stop sobbing. Luisa. Stop that! Silence. Sorry. She felt as though her arms were turning blue. She slowly let go of herself. It was cold. Elaine. Michael. Gaudio, even. She put her hand into her pocket, to keep the cold away. Her free hand went to her mouth and her heart stopped. Something was in her pocket. She took it out. Her key. Her pocket watch. And something else.

It was the onion! She couldnt see it, but she could feel it. It was cold, like metal, and smooth and round. Of course. She had put it in her pocket when Gaudio gave it to her. Hello, it whispered.

Michael and Elaine had expected Luisa to be in their room when they returned, and it was a surprise for them to find their room empty. Maybe, shes still with Gaudio? Elaine suggested. Michael nodded. Elaine took out her brushes and paint and began coloring the still empty walls. She realized she would run out of space, sooner or later, but for now, she could paint her murals on parts of the sad walls. When the time came, she would just have to paint over her old paintings, though she figured Luisa would never let her. Theyre too precious, she would say. Maybe Mother would give her another room to paint. That was something to think about, something to hope for. It was only a fools hope, but what else could she do? What should I paint, this time, Michael? she asked her brother. Michael shrugged his shoulders and lay on his bed. His hands were laced beneath his head. Mountains? he suggested. Elaine looked at the wall behind Luisas bed. I already did that, she said, matter-of-factly. Night sky? Elaine crossed her arms. Michael? He looked at her sister and said, What? Elaine pointed to the ceiling. Oh, he said. Houses? Ive done that, too. Look, Elaine. Michael sat up. It doesnt matter what you paint. Whatever it is, its still going to be great. He lay back down on his bed. Elaine jumped onto his bed. Do you really think my paintings are great? she asked, her eyes shining with delight. Of course, I do, Michael said. And youre not just saying that because youre my brother? No, he replied.

Do you think when we finally get out of this house, Elaine continued. I could paint all day? She didnt wait until Michael answered. Do you think people will want to see my paintings? Do you think theyll like them? Michael paused. If we get out of here. Oh, Elaine muttered. She jumped from the bed and sat on the floor. She hugged her knees and stared, blankly. Elaine? Michael called, when the silence started to bother him. What? Michael paused. Of course, theyll like your paintings. His sister ignored him. He sighed. I have something for you to paint. What? Elaines enthusiastic face appeared at the edge of the bed. Do you think you could paint me a new target? Michael said. That ones a little wobbly. He pointed to the one he had used so often. Elaine looked at it. Well, I did have shaky hands when I painted that, she said. She began painting white over Michaels old target. Before she could finish, the dinner bell rang. Luisa still had not returned. We should go, Michael told his sister. Elaine looked at her brother and packed away her brushes. She held on to her brothers sleeve as they made their way to the dining hall. When they found that Luisa was not at the dinner table, they sat and kept their silence, until Michael could take it, no longer. Mother, he said, trying to stop his voice from shaking. Wheres Luisa? Mother ignored his question and put her fork through an eyeball on her plate. Mother? Michael? Wheres Luisa? Mother wailed. Shes not here! Now stop asking questions! Michael stood up and shouted, What did you do to her, you monster? In a blink, Mother appeared next to Michael and slapped his face. When Michael fell to the floor, Mother poised to kick his side. Mommy, no! Elaine screamed. Mother looked at her youngest daughter with overwrought eyes. She started wailing and crying in disbelief. She knelt on the floor and started pulling her hair.

Michael stood up and ran to Elaines side. Darn right for you to be crying! he said. Elaine shot an angry glance at her brother and said, No, Michael. She walked slowly to Mothers side. Are you alright? she asked her. Mother? She put her hand on Mothers shoulder. Mother shrieked, her eyes widening in horror, and clawed Elaines face with her long, dirty fingernails. Michael pulled Elaine away, as she screamed in pain. He held her close and looked at their mother, still wailing hysterically on the floor. Lets go, Elaine, he said. Michael and Elaine made their way back to their bedroom, with Elaine keeping a hand on her bleeding cheek. Michael brought Elaine into the bathroom and sat her at the edge of the bathtub. He took a swab of cotton from the bathroom closet and started cleaning his sisters wounds. Mother had given her four shallow cuts, but they were deep enough to bleed. Are you all right? Michael asked. Im fine, Elaine said. She stared at her feet that dangled from the floor. Michael dabbed at her wounds. Im not very good at this, he said. At what? Comforting you. Elaine smiled through her tears. Youre doing fine. Michael bandaged his sisters wounds, and sat at the edge of the bathtub beside her. Whyd you do that? he asked. Go to Mothers side, I mean. Elaine blinked and thought. Because she needs someone, too, I suppose, she said. She needs love, too. Well why should we give it to her when she never gave us any? Elaine bit her lip. She looked at Michael and said, I dont know. Michael sighed. I suppose youre right, though, he said. She just better not expect it from me. Oh, Michael I have none to give her, Michael said, plainly. He stood up and walked to the door. Lets get to bed. I dont think Luisas coming back, any time soon. Elaine followed him to their bedroom and asked, You dont think Mother did anything horrible to her, do you?

Michael lay down on his bed and covered his head with his pillow. No, Im sure Luisas fine, he lied. Are you, really? Elaine asked. Yes, shes probably run off with Gaudio and left us for some amazing place. Silence. Elaine sat at the foot of Michaels bed and stared into the distance. She contemplated whether or not her sister would do just that. Elaine decided she had every right to do that. Luisa deserved to be somewhere else where she could at last be happy. She had always held Elaine close and whispered comforting words to her and Michael when they needed it. Perhaps, Luisa needed someone to hold her, too. Elaine felt tears welling up in her eyes. True, Luisa could run off any moment she wanted, but Elaine did not want her to. She scolded herself for being so selfish. She stood up and looked at Michael, still hiding his face beneath his pillow. She wouldnt, she said, her voice shaking. Michael did not seem to hear her, which greatly annoyed her. She wouldnt! she said more firmly, and brought her hand down on Michaels bed. Elaine! Michael said, surprised. He had probably dozed off while she was deep in thought. Or had he been crying, too? Elaine could see the tracks of tears running down her brothers cheeks. She felt her own tears on her face. She wouldnt, she said, again, the confidence in her voice gone. What? Luisa would never leave us! she shouted and started sobbing. Michael stared at his sister for a moment. The brave, little girl he had tended to just moments ago had turned into a miserable mess. He sat his little sister beside him and took her in his arms. He felt her warm tears fall on the sleeves of his pajamas. He didnt know what to say. Elaine? he started. She just sniffed. Elaine? What? Im sorry. Elaine sniffed and pulled herself away from her brother. Its all right, I suppose, she said, and wiped away her tears. She put Michaels face between her

hands and squeezed it so that his lips would pucker up. She had always done this when she was a baby. Youve been crying, too? she said. Yes, I have. Well, thats a surprise. Elaine put her hands on her lap. Oh, Elaine, Michael said. If only you knew. Knew what? yet. Michael paused. I promised Luisa I wouldnt tell you, he said. At least, not Tell me what? Elaine, I cant eyes. But, Michael, I want to know! Elaine looked at her brother with pleading Michael sighed. We should get to bed, he said. Elaine paused before she climbed into her own bed. She realized she wouldnt get anything out of her brother. At least, not yet, he said. But what she didnt know couldnt put her mind to rest. When it started to rain outside, she climbed into her brothers bed and shook him awake. Can I stay, here? she asked. Michael nodded sleepily and put his arm around her. Elaine watched the rain outside their window and pulled the blanket up to her shoulders. Michael? Hmm? Nothing. She waited for a while before she said, Michael? Hmm? I miss Luisa. Michael sighed and sat up. He held her in his arms and said, Me too. Im scared. Me, too. You? Elaine asked. Really? Michael laughed at the fact that she didnt believe him. Yes, he said.

Why? Michael thought for a moment. He decided Elaine had a right to know, whether or not he promised Luisa he wouldnt tell her. Because I know what Mother can do, he said. And Ive seen her do it. Do what? Michael faced Elaine and put his hands on her shoulders. You wont tell Luisa I told you? he asked. I promise, Elaine said calmly, though her heart was beating fast. Michael cleared his throat. Before you were born, he started and took a deep breath. Mother would... Yes? Mother would He looked Elaine in the eyes. She was still so young, he realized, and wondered whether he had a right to tell her things that might take her innocence away. He sighed. Michael? Mother would... Punish Luisa and me for such little things. Elaine just looked at him. She would... Well, sometimes shed beat us. Sometimes, she wouldnt feed us for days. Why would she do that? Elaine asked, her voice shaking. I dont know. But I couldnt complain. Not really. Because Luisa had it worse. What do you mean? Mother would lock her up in the basement. It was always too dark and too cold down there. And sometimes Mother wouldnt let her out for weeks. I dont know what happened there, exactly. Luisa never told me, but I think its bad. Oh, Michael, Elaine whispered. Michael paused. Im sorry, Elaine, he said. I just thought you should know. Elaine nodded and embraced her brother. I love you, Michael, she whispered. I love you, too. Michael held Elaine tighter. Im just glad she never did any of that to you. Elaine pulled away from him and touched the wounds on her cheek.

Oh, Michael said. Right. Well, well never let her do that to you, again. Or anything else, for that matter. I promise. They held on to each other throughout the night, until the morning.

Gaudio hugged a glass of cold water to his face. Bugsy, the small, mustached man who ran the Carnivals own little tavern, offered him something stronger, but all Gaudio wanted was something cold to press upon his swollen eye. He wasnt one for drinking, anyway. The Carnival Tavern (What an awfully creative name, Gaudio thought.) was always too loud packed, but it was warm and cozy, so though Gaudio minded the noise, he came there often. Besides, Old Fetch never came to the tavern, which made it a sort of sanctuary for him. Not a perfect sanctuary, though. Far from perfect, actually. Of course, there were drunk men who sometimes fought with each other. There were men who trifled with the gorgeous dancers and most often, vice versa. There was also the usual gossiping women to put up with. Just as Gaudio entered the tavern, he heard them talking trash about poor old Simon and Mark, who had both died the day before. But he had learned to keep them away. If he kept his silence and stayed in the shadows, the drunk men wouldnt bring him in on their fights. The women had long ago given up on him when they realized he would never bother with them. Coming to the tavern also made Gaudios vision of his future clearer. He knew, or rather, hoped he wouldnt end up like any of them. He didnt want to end up in the tavern each night, drinking tankards of beer and touching a different girl on different nights. He wanted to be somewhere else, too. He loved the Carnival, sure, but he knew there was more than just that. He had always hoped to settle in one place, not having to travel so often. He wanted a family, too. A real family. Sure, those who worked at the Carnival were nice enough to take him in, but they didnt know him. They only knew what they wanted to know. They took it quite hard when Old Fetch told them they were leaving, but Gaudio couldnt help feeling excited to have a life away from the carnival. Maybe he could even convince Old Fetch to buy a cottage by the sea. True, Old Fetch was hard on him, but sometimes he was nice enough to hear him out. And maybe, just maybe, he could visit the LStats when he wanted. If Old Fetch didnt want to live by the sea, maybe he could live there alone. He was almost twenty years old, anyway. He was perfectly capable of living alone. He brought himself back to reality when he saw a little boy come through the tent flaps of the tavern. Oi, Pip! he shouted. The little boy looked at Gaudio and smiled. He ran and sat beside Gaudio by the counter, his feet dangling from the floor. Thats a nice shiner, you got there,

Gaudio! he remarked, pointing to Gaudios black eye. As he spoke, Gaudio observed the empty spaces between his teeth. He had lost some when his fathers horses had brushed him off. You should have Yolanda take a look at that, he continued. Yolanda? Yeah, the trapeze dancer! Pip replied. She a medic, too, ya know. And she fancies you! Gaudio just laughed at the thought. This aint no place for you, Pip, he said. Well, there aint no other place to go to, Gauds, Pip said in his squeaky voice. He asked Bugsy for a flagon of gin. Dont ya think thas too strong for you, Pip? What are you, my father? Pip took a sip from his flagon. Gaudio looked at the ten-year-old boy beside him down the gin in one gulp. He was surprised the boy didnt drown. He was so small, even smaller than Luisas sister, Elaine, who was younger than him. He wore an oversized coat, only making him look tinier. Pip wiped his mouth with his sleeve and belched. Wha happened to you, Gaudio? he asked. Oh, this? Gaudio pointed to his eye. Ol Fetchs present. Whatcha do, this time, then? Brought somethin of his to the LStat house. The LStat house? What madness drove ya there? I made a deal with em. The LStat children, I mean Gaudio, you crazy? Pip exclaimed. Theyre monsters! No, they aint! Gaudio shouted. He actually felt hurt at the accusation, though it wasnt directed at him. They aint so bad! Gaudio! No, Pip! Pip paused and asked Bugsy for another drink. Aight, then, he said. Ill take your word for it. Gaudio sighed and put his glass to his eye. Hey, Gaudio? Yeah, Pip?

Ill miss ya when youre gone. Gaudio laughed and patted the boys head. Ill miss ya, too, he said. Its just... Pip continued. Youre like a big brother to me, an Oh no, here come the sentiments! Gaudio laughed, took off his hat and covered Pips face with it. Pip pulled away Gaudios hat. Gaudio, Im serious! he exclaimed. Plenty of other time for that, eh, Pip? Gaudio said. I aint leavin just yet. Fine, then! Pip said. Ill have plenty of time to write me goodbye speech! Gaudio laughed, again. He knew Pip didnt really intend to write a speech. How could he, when he didnt know how to write? You should go home, Pip, Gaudio said. No more gin for you, too. Sides, your pops will be needin help in the stables. leave. I hate the stables! Pip said, but he jumped from the stool and turned to Gaudio laughed before he called him back. Hey, Pip! he said. What, now? Can I ask you a favor? Sure, ya can! Pip replied.

Chapter 5 In Which A Voice is Heard

Luisa still had not returned, the following day, and it took all Michaels and Elaines efforts to try not to worry about her. They breezed through the day: had breakfast with Mother, locked themselves in their room and busied themselves with whatever they could do, ate lunch with Mother, prepared and headed for their dreaded class with Mother. Elaine thought Luisa was lucky. She didnt have to spend three hours a day with Mother. Mother had long ago decided that Luisa had learned all she could from her. But then again, Luisa spent hour after hour in the basement, a place Elaine could only imagine. Elaine had never been there, before. In fact, Mother almost never laid a hand on her, though she was hardly surprised when Mother clawed her face. Maybe she was the lucky one, after all. Or maybe none of them were lucky. Supper with Mother was just a tad bit bearable. No human parts floated to the top of their soup, and no insect antennas jutted out from their potatoes. Michael didnt dare ask for Luisa, this time. None of them mentioned her, the entire day. When the two siblings washed up and locked the door to their room, they sighed. They sat in silence, and when Elaine could no longer handle it, she grabbed her basket of brushes and paint. What are you doing? Michael asked. Im making Luisa a present, she said, as if what she was doing was obvious. She stripped Luisas bed of its sheets and laid it flat on the floor. Michael sat on the floor beside her, and watched. He didnt offer to help her, because he knew she wouldnt let him. Painting was Elaines sanctuary. When she painted, she wasnt just little Elaine, anymore, and Michael could see Elaine physically change. She seemed to emanate a certain kind of happiness. Contentment, maybe. And her confidence was etched in her face. Her hands moved gracefully, sure of each stroke and color. And perhaps, she was not Elaine LStat, daughter of Mother LStat when she painted. Maybe she became just plain, lovely Elaine, for Mother would never let anything as beautiful as her live, let alone come from her own belly. The problem was, when she was done painting, shed be Elaine LStat, again. Michael savored the moment and watched her paint Luisas face, her brown hair that curled beneath her chin to below her breasts. Luisas green eyes were looking at something in her painted hands, but Michael could not understand what it was, yet. Elaine painted Michaels face next to their sisters, donning the same features as Luisas, and his flat brown hair. His eyes were directed to the same thing

Luisa was looking at. Lastly, she painted her face with a ribbon, the same shade of blue her eyes were, in her wavy, yellow hair. She, too was looking at whatever it was that Luisa held. Elaine started painting the object. She used yellow paint, and yet somehow, in a way Michael couldnt understand, the paint became gold on the sheet. Michael finally understood what it was. Thats the thing I won from the Carnival! he said. The Onion, Elaine said, plainly. She took one final look at her work and smiled, as if she didnt believe that she, herself, had painted it. It looks quite like an onion, dont you think? she added. Michael nodded in agreement and stared at the painted Onion. Elaine looked at him and waited for him to say something. When he didnt, she said, It spoke to me, you know. What? Elaine patted the Onion on her painting, both to tell Michael it was what she meant and to check if the paint had dried. Michael looked at it for a moment and turned to Elaine. It did to me, too, he said. At least, I think it did. I heard a voice, and You dont think were mad, do you? Elaine asked. Michael bit his lip. We may be, he said. But not like her. Elaine paused to decide whether to laugh would be cruel or not. She went with the former and giggled. She looked back at her work and patted it. I still pity her, though, she said, sadly. Why? I dont know, really, Elaine said. I just... Feel it. Michael nodded. Luisa does, too, I think, he muttered. Do you? Elaine asked. Michael paused. He had never really thought of that. He decided, I pity us, more. He stood and helped Elaine up. But, it doesnt matter, anyway, does it? he continued. Theres no point wallowing in self-pity.

Luisa did not know how long she had been in that dark room, but that did not disturb her. The voice that came from the Onion (or was it from her head?) had been consoling her, and had even sung her to sleep. Michael is fine.

Elaine is fine. Gaudio is... Well, hes alive. Youll be fine. Get some sleep. As she slept, Luisa dreamt of a golden autumn. She lived in a humble cottage, where there was a room each for Michael, Elaine, and her. And yes, Mother had one, too, and she was there. Or was it someone else? No, it was Mother. Only, she was different. She looked happy, watching Michael and Elaine playing, out in the garden, with yellow leaves falling upon them. Mother was twirling her hair around her finger, sipping tea across the table from Luisa. Butterflies fluttered around them. A light flickered and faded from them in a constant rhythm. Maybe they were fireflies, after all? No, they had butterfly wings, and the light came from their bodies and their wings. When the light faded, so did they. One perched on Luisas outstretched finger. Wake up. The same dream, over and over again. Wake up. Shes coming. Luisa did not know how long she had been sleeping, but it must have been quite a while or longer. Her head felt airy and dizzy, as she tried to remember her forgotten dream. The Onions lullaby still lingered in her mind. She heard footsteps echo across the walls outside her prison. She felt the Onion in her hand and hid it in her pocket. The door opened and a sudden burst of blinding light came into the room. When Luisas eyes had adjusted to the light, she saw Mothers figure in the doorway. Get dressed, Mother said. Youre coming with me to the Market, today. Yes, Mother, Luisa said in a groggy voice. She had not spoken for how long? Two days? It wasnt as long as she had thought. Shed spent a much longer time in there, before. Mother turned to leave but stopped herself. She looked at Luisa and asked, What is that? What is what, Mother? Mother paused and shook her head. Never mind. She closed the door behind her.

Luisa was back in the darkness, but she willed herself to stand up. She felt her way through the dark and found the doorknob. When she turned it and opened the door, she was surprised to find herself not on the long staircase Mother had dragged her along, but in a brightly lit hallway. She felt as if the house was taunting her for being in the darkness for so long. She walked along the hallway and found their bedroom door. Inside, she found her blanket on the floor. She picked it up and dumped it lazily on her bed when she noticed that Elaine was not in hers. Her heart nearly stopped as she thought of all the horrible things Mother could have done to her. Mother did threaten to throw her out on the street. She sighed with relief when she saw Michael holding Elaine in his bed. That makes sense. Elaine mustve needed a hug in the middle of the night and came to Michael. She walked over to them when her foot got caught on a sheet spread out on the floor. Elaine had painted on it. Luisa knelt to have a better looked. It was the three of them. Luisa looked at her sleeping siblings and smiled. It was still too early to wake them up, she supposed. She bathed and dressed, took her coat and put on her hat. As she put her hand on the doorknob, Elaine looked up, rubbed her eyes and said her sisters name. Michael opened his eyes and looked to the door. Luisa? Luisa walked over to them and brushed Elaines hair out of her face. Go back to sleep, you two, she whispered. Youre leaving? Elaine asked, when she saw the way Luisa dressed. But you just came back! Where have you been? Ill be back by lunch, Luisa said. Go to sleep. left. Elaine and Michael nodded. When they woke up again, Luisa and Mother had

Michael went to the bathroom. As he was doing so, he looked to the pile of dirty laundry behind the door. The golden Onion had rolled from Luisas pocket onto the floor, and it was calling him.

Chapter 6 In Which a Price is Set

Mother led her daughter along the Market, passing and ignoring most of the stalls. They came to a small, brick building with a tall metal door. Despite its size, it was a menacing structure, what with the two gargoyles on either side of the door. Inside, it was musty, and what little light the lamps that hang from the ceiling gave was red. There was a smaller market, here, too, and it was an odd version of the one outside. This was obviously a place Mother would love, and she fit just right in. Luisa followed Mother through the stalls, stopping to look at the strange artifacts on sale. One stall held a thousand bottles of different colored liquids. One sold jars of dust. In one, there were rows upon rows of skulls and bones. She felt nauseous at the smell that came from a stall she and Mother passed. Mother stopped by one and bought from the owner a jar of insects. Hold this for me, dear, she said, and put the jar in the basket Luisa was carrying. Luisa lifted the lid and cringed at the sight of the squirming insects. She quickly covered the jar, again. She sighed and ran after Mother, who stopped by a stall that was full of cages of different birds from the ceiling to the floor. Mother was holding the cage of an enormous crow that sat silently. Luisa thought it looked like it was planning some deadly scheme. Isnt he lovely, Luisa? Mother said, dreamily, admiring the crows black feathers. Luisa gave her mother the standard reply. Yes, Mother. Its lovely. He, dear. Right, Luisa said. Hes lovely. Mother talked to the crow, that merely blinked its black marble eyes at her. She placed the cage on a table, and began picking at the lock on the bars of the cage. Oi, I dont think thats a good idea, the owner of the stall said. It could peck your eyes out if you set it free. arm. Mother laughed. Nonsense! she said. She opened the cage and stretch her The crow flew and perched on her arm. See? Mother said and caressed the crows feathers. How much for him? Ten, said the owner. Five, Mother said.

The owner laughed, and said, Ten. Mother sighed. Fine, she said, and fished her pockets for her coins. She handed them to the owner and walked away, the crow perched on her shoulder. Her hair looked pale against the crows black feathers. Oi! the owner called after her. This is five coins short! Luisa looked at her mother, already distant, and then at the owner. Ive got to make a living, you know! he said, rubbing his head in frustration. Luisa took out the one coin she brought with her and handed it to the owner. Thats all I have, she said. Dont ask me for more. She walked towards her mother, who did not seem to be waiting for her daughter. She mustve been too taken with her crow. Luisa walked a fair distance behind her mother until something caught her eye. She went inside a stall that was empty but for a glass case in the center. Inside the case was an animals horn, and it was beautiful. It seemed to give off a white light, despite the darkness inside the stall. She read the label on the case. Unicorn Horn, 1200. Well, thats not something you see everyday, she whispered to herself. She pressed her face on the case for a closer look. The glass was cold on her forehead and on the tip of her nose. As Luisa looked closer, she noticed that the white, spiral horn had small, faded blotches of blood. It mustve been a battle to obtain it from a unicorn. She suddenly felt sorry for the poor creature that lost that horn. Luisa? She jumped and turned around. Gaudio! she said. There he was, standing at the mouth of the stall. Right. She had agreed to meet him today. You aight? he asked her. Ya look like you saw a ghost o somethin! You dont look so good, yourself! Luisa said, and covered her mouth. Oh, you mean this? Gaudio pointed to his black eye. Nah, its nothin. Jus somethin Ol Fetch gave me. Oh, Luisa said, then added, Sorry. Nah, dont be, Gaudio said. It aint your fault. Say, what ya doin in this part of the market? Im with my Mother, Luisa said, and peeked out of the stall to look for her mother.

Ah, yes, course you are, Gaudio said, taking an apple out of his pocket. He took a bit out of it and munched noisily. Luisa left the stall and looked around the market. Oi, wait for me! Gaudio ran after her, his free hand on his hat. He noticed the worried look on Luisas face. Somethin wrong? he asked. I cant find Mother, she muttered, almost to herself. She turned to Gaudio. Its all right, I suppose. Shell send for me when she needs me. Shes probably too taken with her new crow. Oh, thas good, then, Gaudio said, biting the apple in his hand. You can spend the mornin with me. What? Luisa creased her brow, and took a seat on a bench, nearby, with her basket in her lap. Gaudio sat beside her. Listen, I have somethin to ask you, he said. Whats that? Uhh... Gaudio paused. First, I think we should get outta here. Luisa nodded. They walked through the metal door, out of the musty air and dull lights and into the sunlit market. A chill wind nipped at their faces, the presence of Fall and the coming winter lingering in the air. Are you hungry? Gaudio asked, offering her what was left of his apple. Luisa shook her head, though she heard her stomach grumble. The only thing she had eaten in the past few days was a piece of stale bread that Mother had given to her in the basement. Dont lie to me, LStat, Gaudio said. I can ear yous stomach from ere. He laughed and threw his apple in a trash bin. Luisa blushed. Can you, really? she asked. Nah, Gaudio said. Luisa smiled and shook her head. Even if I were, she said. I dont have money for food. Or anything else, for that matter. At least, not at the moment. Oh, thats no problem, Gaudio said. I jus got me my pay, see? An I dont mind Luisa gasped and covered her mouth. Whats wrong? Look at that! Luisa pointed to the window of a shop they were passing. Its beautiful! She took Gaudios hand and brought him into the store. Her eyes widened in amazement.

She had only read about pianos, accordions, violins, and guitars, before. To be standing in the midst of them made her especially delighted. She sat on the bench of a piano, placed her basket beside her and slid her fingers across the keys. Gaudio sat beside her. Do you play? he asked her. The smile on Luisas face faded. Only in my dreams, she said. She stared at the sheet music sitting in front of her, wishing she could read the notes. She tried to put on a smile and turned to Gaudio. Do you? she said. Gaudio laughed and shook his head. Only in me dreams, he said. Luisa smiled and stood up. She looked at the instruments in awe. Whats this? Gaudio asked, pointing to the jar in Luisas basket. Luisa laughed. Mothers snacks, she said. Gaudio put his finger on the lid. I wouldnt open it, if I were you, she added. Its that bad, eh? Gaudio asked. Luisa counted on her fingers. Cockroaches, grasshoppers, caterpillars, I think, she said. Gaudio made a face. Oh, and theyre alive, she added. Gaudio took a deep breath and nodded. So, he said. Ya hungry? Luisa laughed, then gasped. She put a finger on her lips. Do you hear that? she asked. What? Listen. Outside the shop, the two could hear a faint hum. Luisa smiled, picked up her basket, took Gaudios hand, and ran out of the shop. Just a small distance away from the music shop, a flutist was performing for the crowd. Luisa clapped her hands and jumped with glee. Hes brilliant! she said. She pushed through the crowd to get a closer view. Oi, wait for me! Gaudio said. He found her at the very front of the crowd, smiling at the flutist and swaying with the music. He smiled at her, took her hand and swayed with her. When the flutist was done with his song, the crowd dispersed, but not without dropping a coin or two in the flutists hat. Luisas smile faded, knowing she had none to give. Gaudio saw the look on her face, and fished his pocket for two coins, one of which he handed to her. She smiled at him and threw the coin into the musicians hat, as he did the same with his.

The flutist bowed and thanked them. Luisa nodded, looked at Gaudio and grinned. What? Gaudio asked. That was amazing! Luisa screamed and jumped. She took his hand. Come with me, she said. I want to see something! She ran down the road, pulling him behind her. Where are we going? Luisa slowed down and looked around. Theres this shop Mother and I always pass when we come here, she said. The small, colorful one. Oh, the paint shop? Gaudio asked. I know where it is! He led her down a few blocks and opened the door to a tiny, paint-splattered store. Luisa squealed as she past the door. Oh, Elaine would love this! she said, and picked up a tube of blue paint. She a painter? Gaudio asked. Luisa nodded, enthusiastically. She picked up a handful of paintbrushes from a barrel of brushes. Oh, shell definitely love these! she said to herself. Hold this for me, will you? She handed Gaudio her basket and ran along the shelves of cans and jars of paint, letting her fingers touch each container. Gaudio watched her disappear amongst the colors of paint. He leaned against the counter where a rusty cash register sat. He placed Luisas basket next to the register. He could hear her talking to herself about which colors of paint and which brushes to but for Elaine when she got the chance to come back. She sounded so delighted. The owner of the shop appeared behind the counter. Can I help you? he asked Gaudio, his elbows on the countertop, his chin resting on his hands. What? Gaudio asked, surprised. No, Im just... Im... No. Im aight. Youre not very articulate, young man. I aint. Maybe, youre better with a brush. Nah, I cant paint, Gaudio said. Have no eye for beauty, I think. You have your eye on that girl, the shopkeeper said, plainly. What? Gaudio asked. His face had gone red, and he knew it. He only hoped it wasnt too obvious, and decided to laugh about it and brush off the shopkeepers remark.

His laughter faded when he heard the faint sound of a music box playing somewhere among the shelves. Luisa had gone silent. I suppose shes found the toys Ive painted, the shopkeeper said. He pointed to where the music was coming from. Gaudio found Luisa staring at a model of a carousel that spun slowly and played a tune. Her chin rested on the edge of the shelf the carousel was sitting on. She was humming the music to herself, and did not notice him coming. She looked entranced by the simple thing, and Gaudio thought she looked beautiful. He reached out his hand to pat her shoulder but decided against it. He wanted to ask her what she was thinking, but he didnt have to. Its beautiful, isnt it? she whispered, just loud enough for Gaudio to hear. Gaudio looked at her then at the carousel. Yes, it is, he said. She smiled and hummed to herself, again. When the carousel stopped spinning music no longer played, she sighed and looked at Gaudio. Fancy finding this in a paint store, she said. He paints em, I think, he said. Luisa nodded and ran her fingers on the top of the carousel. She peered through the small fancy-painted horses to catch a glimpse of her reflection on the tiny mirrors at the center. She placed it back on the shelf, but she didnt feel like parting with it. Gaudio picked it up and winded the key at its base. He placed it back on the shelf as soon as it started spinning. Luisa sang the tune to herself. Howd you know this song? he asked. Ive heard it before, Luisa said. I just dont remember where. They stood there in silence, just watching the carousel and listening. Yous diffrent, today, LStat, Gaudio remarked. Luisa laughed. Am I? she said. Yeah, Gaudio said. He took a bite out of his bread. Must be cause o me. Luisa smiled. This place is different, she muttered to herself, then added in a much louder voice, It must be because of the air. Damn, LStat, you need more air! Luisas smile faded. She walked away from the shelf and muttered, I know. Gaudio was taken aback by Luisas reply. He had only meant it as a joke, and didnt think she would take it seriously. She had gone pale, and the smile she had just moments ago had disappeared from her face. She found her way to the door.

Her hand rested on the doorknob, her eyes peering out the window, though he was sure she wasnt seeing anything. He felt he should say something, but he didnt know what. Dyou want somethin warm to drink? It probably wasnt the best thing to say, but its what came out of his mouth. Its gettin kinda cold. Luisa looked at him, almost surprised, and nodded. Cmon then, Gaudio said. He held the door open for her, and as she passed, he took of his hat and placed it on her head. She laughed and wrapped her coat around her shoulders. He bought each of them a cup of hot chocolate and a roll of bread, and they sat on a bench near the paint shop. What were you going to ask me, Gaudio? Luisa said as she sat down. Hmm? You said you were going to ask me something. Oh, right. Gaudio waited for a moment. He felt nervous to ask her what he wanted to, because his gut feeling told him that her answer would not be in his favor. He took a deep breath. Come to Scully Beach with me, he said, as quickly as he could, so that he wouldnt think of stopping himself. Luisa looked at him. What? Gaudio laughed and took a deep breath. Come to Scully Beach with me, he said, a bit more calmly. You, Michael and Elaine. Luisa just looked at him in awe. Its just... Member when I said Id ask you for somethin in return for takin that thing to ya? Luisa nodded. Well, I was thinkin Isnt this it? Luisa asked. What? I met you, today, Luisa said. Isnt this it? Gaudio paused. Oh, he muttered. I was jus... Well, I was hopin... Look, me friends, Pip and is dad is lendin me a horse and a carriage on Saturday, Gaudio said. All I ask is that you an your siblins come with me to Scully Beach. Luisas face lit up. You mean it, Gaudio? she said. Course, I do! Luisa covered her open mouth with her hand. Of course, well She stopped herself. No, not of course, she said, and looked at him. Gaudio, wed love to come with you, but Im afraid Mother will not let us.

See, I knew youd say that, Gaudio said. Im sorry, she murmured. I gotta plan for that, see? Gaudio said. He began to explain. Pips dad aint lendin me Bruce til afternoon Bruce? Oh, es the horse, he continued. And I was thinkin you could sneak off at night. Well be back fore the sun rises, the next day. said. Luisa paused and then took a deep breath. Ill have to think about it, she Gaudio nodded. Yeah, yeah, you do that. Luisa took a sip from her cup. This tastes nice, she muttered. You never had it, before? Luisa looked at him and laughed. Why are you surprised? she said. Gaudio laughed with her. Good point. They ate their bread and finished their drinks, not talking to each other. There was nothing to be said, and besides, each others company was enough. Luisa wrapped her fingers around her cup to keep them warm. Scully Beach, she whispered to herself. A chance for her and her siblings to get away, even if it was just for a night. Is it really as nice as you say, Gaudio? she said. Gaudio nodded. No needin to warm yourself up, too, he said. The weather aint cold, and neither are the people. Luisas face lit up as she looked at him. Gosh, LStat, youll love it there! he continued. You an your siblings! Especially the lil one. Luisa grinned, widely. She could imagine the three of them running along the beach, burying their toes in the sand, splashing each other with water. The thought warmed her heart even more than her hot chocolate could. Sure, Gaudio would be there, but she didnt mind. She could squeeze him into the picture in her mind. And maybe she could squeeze in Mother, too. Oh, goodness, Mother! Luisa drained her cup, finished her bread, stood up and said, I have to go. Gaudio looked up at her. What? he said, running after her down the alley. Wait! You forgot your basket! Where ya goin? Luisa stopped to let him catch up to her. She took her basket and Mothers jar from him and said, Shes probably looking for me! She a jolt of electricity run through her body, a familiar feeling that meant her mother was calling her

somewhere, and if everything was working the way Mother planned, Luisa would no longer be standing beside Gaudio. Gaudio looked at Luisa. Well, where is she? he said. Luisa shrugged her shoulders. I dont know, she said, her whole body tingling. She hugged her basket to her chest and looked around. That way, I think, she said to herself and headed to a vegetable stand. She turned to Gaudio and said, You should go. Huh? Luisa! Mothers unmistakable shrieking voice rang through the market. Luisa looked over Gaudios shoulder and spotted her haggard mother, a crow circling above her head. She pushed Gaudio into a nearby stall. Stay here, she said as firmly as she could. She walked slowly towards her Mother, who ran to her as soon as she spotted her. Mother grabbed her daughter by her shoulders. Her face was a mess, with all the tears on running down her cheeks. Where have you been? she asked in a panicky voice. Ive been... Luisa didnt really have an answer to that question. Ive been looking for you! she lied. Why didnt you come when I called? Mother asked, her eyes so wide in horror, Luisa could almost feel them bore into her skin. She didnt let her daughter answer. Instead she clapped her hands. Nothing happens, Luisa! Why is that? she shrieked. She clapped her hands, again, and as she did, a fruit vendors cart broke nearby and apples spilled onto the ground. Mother! Luisa said. She headed toward the cart to help the vendor, but Mother grabbed her wrist and brought her hand down on her daughters face. It didnt even hurt at first. It wasnt a strong blow, but it happened so suddenly that Luisa fell on her back, anyway. She heard Gaudio call her name from the stands. What a stupid thing to so, she thought, and ignored his call. She felt that the whole market stopped to watch what was happening, so she looked her mother in the eyes and willed herself not to cry. She pulled herself to her feet, picked up her basket, deliberately left Mothers jar and ran to the vendors side to help her pick up the apples. Here you go, she said. She ran after the apples that were scattered away from the cart. Gaudio ran to her and knelt beside her. Dont talk to me, she whispered. Why not? he asked in confusion. He started picking up apples, too. Mother will see you, Luisa said, trying to avoid looking at him. And who knows what shell do with you. Fine, then, Gaudio said, and cleared his throat. Me hats still with you.

What? Oh. Luisa put her hand over her head. She took off his hat and handed it to him. Gaudio took it from her and asked, Are you aight? Im fine, she said. She looked over her shoulder to see Mother holding her face in her hands, not paying attention to her daughter. The crow perched on her shoulder, nibbling at her ear. Are ya, really? he asked, again. Luisa sighed. Im fine, she said, again. She put the apples into her basket and stood up. Ill see you, this weekend, she said. Yous comin, then? Gaudio asked, hopeful. Michael and Elaine could use some fresh air, too. Gaudio smiled and said, Ill see ya, then. When Luisa had turned away, he jumped and said, Yes! to himself. Luisa emptied her basket into the vendors cart who thanked her quietly. She saw Mother sobbing quietly to her self where she had left her. She took a deep breath to put on her good daughter mask before she stepped closer, ignoring the crow and took her mothers hands in hers. Mother? she said, as gently as she could. Lets go home. Mother lifted her face from her hands. Dont ever leave my side, again, please, she murmured. Luisa nodded. She took Mothers jar from the ground and placed it in the basket. Ive already called for the carriage, Mother said. Come along. Mothers stance had changed. She was no longer the weeping woman lost at the heart of the market, and how she had changed so quickly was a mystery to Luisa. She put her arm around her daughters shoulders and stood uncomfortably close to her as they walked to the carriage waiting for them by the square. Wait. Mother stopped in her tracks and sniffed the air. Stay in the carriage, Luisa, she said. Luisa climbed into the carriage and made herself comfortable. Her basket lay beside her on the carriage seat. She knew the gloomy interior of the coach well. These had been the same velvet seats and darkly tinted windows that caged her and her siblings on their way to the carnival, as well as on the rare occasions Mother asked them to accompany her on trips outside the house. Luisa could hear the insects squirming inside Mothers jar. The sound made her skin crawl, as she tried to ignore it by thinking of the coming weekend. Luisa realized how thrilled she was to tell her siblings the news. Theyd be so elated! Finally, a chance to leave the house to spend time just for themselves.

In her minds eye, the picture was clear and perfect. Theyd be riding a new carriage, soon. Maybe one that wasnt so suffocating as this one. And when they get to Scully Beach, theyll breathe in the salty air, a warm breeze blowing on their faces, the waves of sea welcoming them, and the horizon stretching out into the distance. No walls limiting them. No tricks or illusions played. Mothers voice from outside the carriage broke Luisas trance. It sounded like Mother was struggling, and there was another voice, too. One that Luisa knew well. She opened the carriage door and saw Mother holding Gaudio by the ear.