A curious moment

How Chloe Ashley—a normal, everyday girl who went to school, rode the bus, did chores and loved books—came to be friends with Mr. Ixworth and Mr. Maddox is a tale, like many, born from a single coincidental moment.

As if answering a dare, the clouds began to dispense a torrent of plump raindrops. In only a few short moments, the narrow lane ran deep with rainwater and Chloe was soaked. Fearing for the contents of her rucksack Chloe ducked into the narrow doorway to number 17.