C25 TWENTY FIVE

Prattle

DEREK

prattle without practice

— William Shakespeare, Othelllo

I KNEW I overreacted as soon as I left the stone house, but I couldn't calm my mind or heart. I needed space. Quiet.

My best friend was in danger, possibly imprisoned for life, and I didn't know the right answer to save him. I wanted—needed—to figure out a way to save my best friend