Anyone could see, looking back, it was a bad idea. Sixteen with a baby – sounds like a cheesy ‘After School Special.’ At least there wouldn’t be any more school. Her friends, co-conspirators, were living their own drama now, doubting the wisdom of the plan that sounded so awesome last spring.

Brandi Lea Brothers uncapped the bottle of black glitter nail polish. The quiet was a welcome reprieve from the constant complaining from her mom. What right did that bitch have to criticize her, anywho? Tanya was only thirty-three – do the math. She was just scared Dale would leave and stop paying the rent. He was already pissed about the noise.

As she touched up the chipped polish on her toenails, she wondered what was going on with her friends. Were their babies cute and cuddly? Isn’t that what they expected?

Brandi’s skin prickled as she heard mewling sounds from the bedroom. Brandon Lee Brothers was hungry again. She imagined his red face, pointed head, gaping toothless mouth. Before the subtle cries became frantic screams, she closed the door and plugged in the buds from the iPod. He wasn’t going to starve. Tanya would be home soon.

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