Staying out here was the right call, I tell myself. I don’t want to play any role in what those kids are going through. I’m the lead figure in many people’s nightmares, I know that, but I’m not going to unintentionally terrorize a bunch of kids.
I’m outside for a few minutes when I hear a raised voice.
Coming from inside the house.
I hop off my bike, jog up to the front door, and shove it open without knocking.
“You tricked a little girl into letting you inside!” the male voice screams. “I never would have opened the door for you. You’re not welcome here! We don’t need you!”
“I’m sorry you feel that way,” Piper says calmly. “That’s actually what I’m here to determine. I need to speak to your mom. She scheduled this meeting.”
The living room is small and square, with a sagging plaid s
