Gladys Brewer had been struggling to walk around town, hoping mild exercise might help her shed a pound or two. Her mind had been focused on self-pity when she was about to cross a street. She hadn't seen Thea Woods coming on her motorcycle. Thea had pushed Gladys out of the way, saving her life ... but at what price?
Gladys found herself on a cold sidewalk. Just another crummy day of my crummy life, she thought. Wait ... what am I doing wearing this crummy dress? Why's my hair so long?
Gladys stopped asking herself questions when she spotted Lauren O'Brien in the distance. The Irish cheerleader's fiery hair was unmistakable. Gladys had glanced at boys before, but she stared at Lauren. What a beauty ... Gladys suddenly found the motivation to not only stand up but approach Lauren. Gladys normally didn't speak unless spoken to, but now she waved at her classmate. "Hey!"
