Chapter Two: Birthday Surprise I open my purple trapdoor and climb down the ladder. I go over to the stairs and start walking down while thinking about my crazy dream. But… me being clumsy, I trip and roll down the stairs. I stand up, somehow miraculously not hurt. I rub my elbow while walking into the kitchen. I hurt it while roller skating yesterday. Not. Fun. I walk into the kitchen and see the best thing ever, Birthday Pancakes! We only have them on someone's birthday. I also see my dad in his favorite apron, The one that says “My cooking is so good that even the smoke detector is cheering for me.” He is an O.K cook, but mom is better. Speaking of mom, Laura is on video chat with her. She has to go on this fancy work trip, she is coming back in two weeks. “Ellie!” Mom says in her perky British accent. And with way too much energy for 8:00 in the morning. Then I remember that she’s in a place that wakes up at 6:30. A.K.A New York. I realize that I've been staring into space for about a minute. I smile and say “Hi Mom” She also smiles and says “Are you ready?” “Maybe?” I reply, my smile wavering. Tomorrow night is the big talent show, and I'm going to be helping direct it. But, I keep my smile on my face and sit down next to Laura. Laura keeps talking to Mom while Dad plops a big plate of his pancakes in front of me. I ignore the fact that the stove is smoking. I look out the window and listen to the birds. Drifting back to my dream.
Still need a new name.
