Not a Dream

Clara

Madeline stared at me for a long moment, her eyes scanning my face. Then, without warning, she burst into soft laughter. She covered her mouth, shoulders shaking slightly as she tried to contain herself.

I frowned immediately and turned toward her. “Madeline, I’m serious,” I said, my voice low and strained.

She smiled at me, still clearly entertained. “I know you’re serious, I can tell. When