and follow where mary goes
Shortly after school, before four o'clock even encroaches on them, Maria is crossing the yard to Martel's house. She is also barefoot, so she minces along the sidewalk cautiously, just in case there's anything that might maim her feet. She doesn't have anything with her besides something--maybe a necklace, with beads?--wrapped in one hand, and her dress is simple and summery, even though fall is imminent.
She reminds herself daily that change is natural, and that she loves nature, therefore she should accept the leaves turning colors and the drop in temperature. Unfortunately, she hasn't quite yet been able to convince herself that she doesn't miss the lazy days of spending summer in her boyfriend's bed and in her apartment complex's swimming pool at equal turns. At least the first month or so has been moderately successful, she thinks, knocking at the Martel residence's front door.
Earlier she sent him a text message that said, simply, beware!!, so she thinks he might be expecting her. Or he's waiting to hear that she's in prison. Who knows.
Maria rocks on her heels and waits, looking impish and very, very pleased with herself.