Chapter 162: Demon Girl

Mom hugged me so hard I was sure she would break something.

"Syd," she whispered, "you are amazing."

"No," I whispered back. "I'm whole. It makes a difference."

I was still getting used to the other two people in my head even though they were so much a part of me it was hard to tell us apart. Still. I'd have to be careful who I told about the voices.

Straightjacket, anyone?

In the meantime, the family gathered around me, their happiness and relief so comfortable I wanted to hug them all one at a time.

"Whatever happens," I raised my voice so they could all hear me, "no one can screw up. Leaving town is no longer an option."

Laughter. They laughed. Wow, how cool was that?

I did get hugs, first from Gram, then Dad, then Gram again who kissed my cheek and smiled so wide I laughed at her. Uncle Frank and Sunny engulfed me in a vampire sandwich, making me hope they could fix the mess I made for them.

Even Anastasia took a turn.

"Well done, demon girl," she said.

Galleytrot nosed