Maxzyne Meets the Mannequins

“You just called me a rotten egg!”

“But I didn’t mean, uh, I mean, that’s just what kids say, Elise. You know, when you’re racing someone, that’s all. It’s nothing personal.” Her voice rises with indignation. “Besides, what do you mean I’m pushing you around? I’m trying to save you, remember?”

“Save me?” Elise’s shoulders quiver. She takes a shaky breath, hands on her hips. “We were nearly caught because you had to have a hat. Then we almost started a fire because you had to play music. Now you’re eating candy!” she accuses, her voice growing shrill. She glares across the room at Maxzyne.

“What’s up? You didn’t seem to mind before. Thought we agreed it was no rules for real girls time, Elise.”

Elise squares her shoulders, standing taller. “You still haven’t convinced Gigi not to . . .” She swallows hard before continuing. “You know what? Just leave us alone. You’re no help. You keep wasting time. Come to think of it, maybe you’re just scared!”

“Scared? I am not!” Shocked, Maxzyne stops twirling in her chair. “Besides, we both decided I needed this hat, remember? And who’s wasting time? Don’t know about you, Elise, but real girls have to eat! I’m starved and I’m not going anywhere ’til I do!”