They were in a corner of Ivy’s backyard. There was a big rock on one side and a small tree on the other. Between them was a perfectly round puddle. “This is the secret spot?” asked Bean. She had expected something more secret looking. Like a cave. “Yes. They’ll never find you here,” said Ivy. “You can stay for as long as you want. I’ll bring you food.” “But I only need to stay until dinnertime,” Bean said. Ivy looked disappointed. “I thought you wanted to run away.” “I do. But only till dinner.” “Oh.” Bean felt bad about not staying. “Wouldn’t you get in trouble if your parents found out I was living here?” she asked. “They don’t come out here much,” Ivy said. “My mom is afraid of ticks.” “You probably don’t ever get in trouble anyway,” said Bean, feeling glum. “I’m always in trouble.” “I do too get in trouble,” said Ivy. “No, you don’t,” Bean said. “You read books all the time. You can’t get in trouble for reading books.”
