No crusts

When James went up to his room today, he looked a little sad. Like someone he knew was dead, or maybe his tummy hurt.

I got to thinking. It had been a while since I saw him eat. I know he needs blood, but he eats regular, too. He said so. He must've been hungry... and I was hungry a little.

Time to go to the store.

I made a list. White bread, and peanut butter for protein, and peach jelly for the fruit.

I knew we'd need milk, too. Like Mom would say, death by peanut butter is not unknown. That's what the milk is for, in case your mouth gets glued shut. I don't think even vampire fangs would help too much against that.

While I was there I saw cans of chicken soup and thought those would be good to have too, in case James was sick. While I was putting them in my basket, I sort of laughed, because it seemed silly to buy food and carry it all the way upstairs when I could have just taken it.

The man at the store, well... he didn't know I could steal his food, so he didn't really value my money too much. The cashier was bored-looking until I laughed. Then it occurred to him I might cause trouble.

"Hey! What're you doing here all by yourself? You're just a tyke!"

I balled up my fist on my hip and gave him in my best mommy's-gonna-be-mad frown. "A tyke?! I turn thirteen in three months!" I told him. "And just you mind your own business. Dad's got more important things to do than shopping for bread right now." My glare must've done its work. He shrugged and rang up my basket.

Thirteen in three months... I liked the idea of that. I really turn nine in a few months, but that's so unfair. I can do anything a 13-year-old can. Why should I have to wait four years? Hmmph!

If Mom were here with me today she'd agree, I know it. She always said I could do anything.

Anyway, I got back home and made him sandwiches. I remembered how sad he looked and I just knew I had to find a way to make it better. So, what's the best way to make a PBJ better? Cut off the crusts, of course!

Besides, he saved my life. Who wants to eat crusts when life is so short?