After dinner, I waited for everyone to be asleep again. I didn't need anyone following me out. This time, I was smart and brought a jacket. Phoenix followed me down the stairs and out the front door. The whole house sounded silent. Even Stephan was doing something silently. I made my way to the park where I met Maliki. He was already on the swings and when he looked up, his face lit up. He hopped off the swing and ran up to me. Phoenix got between us as if she was going to protect me from an enemy.
"You came! I didn't think you would but I'm so glad you did!" Maliki exclaimed. He stopped in front of Phoenix and reached down to her. She sniffed at his hand then backed away as if she realized he meant no harm.
"Yeah. I wasn't going to, but honestly, I don't like being cooped up," I repli
