章 29: Chapter 29

The sound of an ambulance in the distance and the sight of Aunt Flory's paint-soaked dress suddenly drove Zoey to panic as a horrible thought seized her. 'If they removed Aunt Flory's clothing, they would discover her secret.'

"The paint!" she cried, to Mr. Nelson's surprise. "We have to wash it off." She snatched the hose from the wall and sprayed Aunt Flory before Mr. Nelson could stop her. Ruby appeared, shouting at her to turn the water off.

The ambulance grew closer.

Suddenly, between the cold water and the shouting, Aunt Flory regained consciousness. "Good Lord, what's all the commotion about?" she complained, her hand on her forehead.

"Aunt Flory!" Zoey cried, dropping beside her to hug her. She kissed her cheek. It tasted cool and moist, like cucumber. "I'm so sorry," she said, tears glazing her vision.