Chapter twenty
**Oliver West**
The moment I stepped into the house, I found Mom and Pumpkin sitting together while Mom ran a brush through the length of my sister's hair. Pumpkin caught sight of me approaching and the wide smile on her face disappeared completely.
I gulped down with great difficulty as Mom's lips formed into one of those disapproving lines I knew too well.
I tried on my best innocent expression as I ventured into the living room, but her gaze was focused on my bandaged nose.
"Mom, I…" I started to say, but the narrowed look she gave me made my words trail off.
She straightened to her feet, leaving Pumpkin to stare curiously at both of us.
"What is this I'm hearing, Oliver? You got detention? Your principal called me and he didn't have anything good to say about your behavior in school! My son is getting into fights, take a look at your face!" She said in a sharp disappointed tone.
"Mom, please, I…" I started, but again I was cut off by her raised voice.
