Chapter 39

I picked up the toothbrush holder, filled it with water, and began brushing my teeth. I didn't spare a glance at Hammy. But she didn't take her eyes off me, scrutinizing me from head to toe and back again. "Maddie, this is Hammy Smith," Kelly introduced. My mouth was full of toothpaste as I nodded at Hammy. She had a round face, but she wasn't overweight. She was dressed in a floral dress, and her makeup showed she had put effort into her appearance. "Hammy, this is Madeline Crown. Isn't her skin as smooth as I said?" Kelly asked as she washed some clothes by hand. When Hammy's eyes met mine, she looked insecure. But she didn't admit it, saying, "She's young. Of course her skin is smooth. I wasn't bad at her age either." Kelly pursed her lips. Hammy rolled her eyes. Watching their subtle conflict felt like a comedy. As I finished brushing my teeth, Hammy asked, "Ms. Crown, are you here to visit some relatives? Or are you here just for fun?" "Fun," I said, rinsing out the toot