With a reproachful look from her mother, Bella took care not to dirty her new dress as she walked around the garden. Even at eight years old, she knew the importance of keeping up appearances—especially when her mother was entertaining important guests in their home.

Bella carefully made her way over to the other children, stepping around any patches of wet grass.

The other children ran around, chasing colorful butterflies while kicking up mud and sullying their shoes. Recoiling, Bella took several steps backwards, and fell dramatically.

She shrieked on her way down, forcing everyone to stop and stare.

▼ f i f t y - t h r e e ▲ : it's just not right.