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Annie and her group of performers stood before the audience. They had just finished their magic performance, and were awaiting the results. Her group had been in this competition for years, and this year, they had a chance. Their magic tricks were absolutely stunning and were a crowd favorite. If they won, they would represent their school with a banner posted above a large street. Annie held her breath as the loudspeaker came on. “We have calculated the points.” The announcer said. “It’ll be okay.” her friend whispered. Annie nodded. “And the winner is…. Annie, Rosa, and Alice” Annie grinned.

Petunia slammed the door of her father’s car. “I still don’t understand why you have to dump me here in this depressing forest.” “Petunia, you know you have to stay at your mothers during the summer.” Petunia crossed her arms. “Dad, don’t make me go!” She pleaded. “Honey, you know you have to. I love you.” He got into the car. As Petunia walked across the frosted grass, she saw something shine. As she knelt down to find it, she came across a key. She grinned mischievously. Maybe this summer won’t be so bad after all, she decided.

Bella took the taxi to her dad’s apartment after she got off the plane in Los Angeles. She set her bag down heavily as she rang the doorbell. Nothing. Bella waited. Finally, her dad opened the door. He looked happy to see her, but Bella wasn’t happy in return. She said “Hi.” and pushed through the doorway. She wandered upstairs to her room. It was painted yellow, her favorite color. She set her suitcase down and shut the door, then looked out the window. She was more than excited to go back home to her cottage beside the waterfall.