Emma Moves In

Chapter Fifteen

The next week, Caitlin, Emma, Natalia, and Zoe have their presentation in English class. Emma hasn’t been nervous at all… until this very moment when they’re supposed to go “onstage.” Emma takes deep breaths, and Zoe reminds her that everything is going to be okay.

Besides the butterflies in her stomach, the whole presentation goes splendidly. Emma remembers her lines, her costume changes work perfectly, and Natalia and Caitlin are funny. Mr. Thomas congratulates them, and the rest of the day, their classmates stop by to say how great it was.

After school, the girls rush over to Seaview House to get ready for the grand opening. Dad is finally there, and he’s busy in the kitchen prepping the appetizers for serving. The girls grab aprons, forks, and trays of food.

Mom and Aunt Alison have old friends there, Abuelita and Grandma Stephenson have friends, and little kids are running around with Mateo and Tomás. Emma spots many of her own classmates, too. The whole event is a success.

Part way through the party, Natalia, who abandoned her food tray long ago, comes down to grab Zoe and Emma and pull them upstairs. In the attic, Emma and her family have finally moved into Seaview House. The bed has fresh sheets and covers, and their closets are full.

The twins exclaim that although it was fun spending so much time with Emma, they’re glad Emma can finally be with her family again. Emma agrees. Natalia suggests they do a new cousin pact.

Together, they do: “Our days together slide like sand through our fingers. The tides go in and the tides go out. Not just cousins and sisters, but best friends. Forever.”

And then Zoe asks Emma whether she’s happy they moved to Waverly or not. Natalia responds “Of course she is” without a second of hesitation. Emma chuckles, and affirms that “Yes, of course” she’s happy she moved.