Connor’s House

Connor’s house differs from Lucas’ house because it is quiet while Lucas’ house is filled with the sounds of his parents’ fighting. Lucas comments that he appreciates the quiet, but learns the quiet of Connor’s parents’ refusal to speak to one another is as hard on Connor as Lucas’ parents’ fighting is on Lucas. Lucas spends a good deal of time at Connor’s house because Connor refuses to leave his parents alone. It is while they are at Connor’s house, playing with Connor’s new kitten, that Lucas finds the gun and box of shells hidden in the vent in Connor’s room.

The Woods

Lucas often finds solace in the woods because it is peaceful there. One day while he is walking through the woods he is spotted by Zoe’s dogs. Lucas fears the dogs are vicious when they chase...