Bab 59: Chapter 59

The day after the funeral, Zoey and Ruby went to the Nelsons' house after school to help Verna care for Mrs. Nelson. She'd slept the better part of the day and, when she was awake, sat quietly, preoccupied with her thoughts. The girls tried engaging her in conversation and distracting her with a blackjack game, but she kindly refused. While they were pleased to see her less morose, they hoped she would soon come out of her shell again.

"I don't have the heart to bother her, but I'm so curious about those crystals," Zoey said as they peeled potatoes at the kitchen table.

"It seems as if she's willing herself to wither away," Ruby said. "She hasn't eaten in days."

"At least she's stopped crying," Zoey said. "Come to think of it. I haven't seen her shed a tear since her cousin left."