Chapter 3

Harold really got me. He knew I was bored out of my skull and instantly found ways to keep things exciting.

We'd climb trees for bird eggs, splash around catching crabs, blow up fireworks on the roof, make lanterns, swap wild stories, and even plot to steal fat geese.

If it sounded fun, Harold was always game—no questions asked.

With his folks off on official business, the whole place was ours, and we could go absolutely wild without anyone telling us off.

One day, after a light summer shower, Harold was pushing me on the swing when he suddenly blurted…