“Okay, I’m gonna tell you something that’s kinda really weird and probably impossible. Can I trust you not to tell anyone? Not even mom or dad or Phoebe or even Connor and Charlie’s dog, okay?”

“Yeah, yeah! You asked me not to tell, like, five bazillion times on the way here! Are you smoking? My teacher said to tell mom and dad if you’re smoking!”

“No, no. I just really kinda really really really wish I could be, uh, a boy. Like more than I’ve ever wished for anything before! I think about walking through the halls at school being such a cool guy and everyone likes me and it’s the greatest thing.”

“Wow, you’re weird. I don’t think even Santa can grant that kind of wish. You were right, I think that is impossible.”

“Way to lift my spirits, Cait.”

“Can you believe it, Renee? In less than a week you’ll be a teenager, just like your cousins Louis and Isabelle. I’m so excited for you! Becoming a woman is a big deal! Aren’t you excited, dear?”

“Heh, yeah I guess. You said my interests will change too, right? I want to understand all the things that’ll help me fit in.”

“I can’t wait to be a teenager! Renee, tell me all about it!”