The Scavenger’s Garden

an excerpt

A surge of panic washed over me as I followed Ronni over the threshold and gave my arms one more vigorous scrub with my palms. Mother was a hawk and could spot the telltale signs of chain link gawking from a mile away and I was already maxed out on the chore chart - what consequence could she bestow me with this time?

I mimicked Ronni’s composure as mom asked, “Did you trade for bread?”

Ronnie plopped two loaves onto the counter and mom eyed her. “Only cost two credits today.”

“Thirty-eight credits remaining,” I added, not wanting her to mistake my silence for guilt.

Mom’s eyebrows quickly disappeared under her wispy bangs. “Larson must be in a good mood. I heard his daughter is partnering with the Wickers boy - that will make a nice union.” She barely looked at either of us as she turned back to her food preparation. “Wash up. Breakfast will be ready soon.”