The Gifting

Just because a lot of people believe something doesn’t make it true.

The past is the past. It’s done. It’s over. It only has power if you let it keep you from making the right choice in the present.

In a world where God does not exist, where science has done everything to systematically remove any sort of deity from society, does she turn to one anyway? Despite all its answers and logic, science offers no comfort, no hope. Not at times like these.

A presence that makes my breath come so quick and so shallow, I worry I might be having a panic attack. I glance at Pete and Elliana flirting, at Rose sticking her tongue out at J.R., and I can’t figure out how they don’t feel it.

My voice escapes like a mouse.

I take a deep breath, as if the key to confidence is an extra dose of oxygen.

Whoops. Didn’t see you there.” The class erupts in giggles. I look up to find the smug face of one of Summer’s groupies, her expression filled with such abhorrence, I’m too flustered to respond.

I don’t tell the doctor about what I saw in Mr. Lotsam’s class. I’m not ready to divulge that yet. Dreams can be explained.

I don’t want to feel. I need the protection from feeling. I’m not sure I can handle any of it. When

In a world where God does not exist, where science has done everything to systematically remove any sort of deity from society, does she turn to one anyway? Despite all its answers and logic, science offers no comfort, no hope. Not at times like these. I

Isn’t killing killers”—he finger-quotes the word—“a little ironic?” The

Listen, Tess. The past is the past. It’s done. It’s over. It only has power if you let it keep you from making the right choice in the present.