I have to call Caroline, I thought. I have to say I’m sorry. Or at least try to explain. I put my hand on the receiver. “Here goes.” I didn’t even have to think about the number. My fingers knew it by heart: 555-4239. One ring. My stomach did somersaults as I waited for someone to pick up. Two rings. Come on, Caroline. Let me get this over with! “Hurt residence, Caroline speaking.” It’s her. Now what do I do? I thought. “Hello?” Caroline sounded irritated. “Helloooooh.” It was now or never. I spoke really fast. “Caroline-it’s-me-Lizzy.” “Lizzy!” Caroline yelled. I winced. Oh, no. Here it comes. But instead of screaming at me, Caroline burst out laughing. “You will not believe what just happened at my house.” I frowned. Why was she laughing? “I had to call you right away,” Caroline continued. “My brother, Chip, just got . . . oh, it’s too funny to even say.” She laughed some more before she could finish her sentence. “Lizzy, Chip just got slimed!”
