“Yeah, man, and I really wanted to take that math test tomorrow.” Doug chuckled and poked me with his elbow. But then tears started to flow. He covered his face and breathed deeply in and out. I did the same.

“Don’t worry, Doug,” I said, my voice cracking with emotion. “If there’s any way to get you back here, I’ll find it.”

Doug reached over and shoved something into my hand.

“Here’s the key to the greenstone. The realtor lady said she’s coming to put some new locks on it in a few days. I’ll text you when for sure. Until then, Flames can have the run of the place.”

I grabbed the key. “Thanks, Doug. You’re the best. I’ll miss y—” But I couldn’t finish. It was just too painful to see my best friend go.

“Yeah. I’ll miss you too.”

“Doug, your security wand awaits.” My dad picked Doug’s super stuffed backpack up off the floor and handed it to him. Then, he put his hands on both of Doug’s shoulders and closed his eyes.

“Lord, watch over our friend Doug. Help him adjust to his new home. Give him great friends who will support him and appreciate his sense of humor. Give him peace and understanding about the big changes ahead. And above all, Lord, give him great food! We trust you with his life. Amen.”

I couldn’t even look up. Tears fell and splashed on the floor. All of a sudden, airports were my least favorite place in the whole world.

And this one was super hot!

“We’re gonna go hang out over here at the coffee kiosk,” Dad said. “You guys can walk Doug over to security.”

Mom stepped forward and gave Doug a big hug. “Keep in touch,” she said. She had tears in her eyes as she left with Dad.

I walked over to the security line with my sister and my best friend.

“Bye, Doug,” I said, but he didn’t repeat me this time.

“I’m not sayin’ it,” Doug said. “Cause I’m comin’ back.”

Zoe gave Doug a hug. “If you need anything, call, text, email, whatever.”

“I won’t need anything. Aunt Tianna has everything. She’s got a fancy place full of furniture you can’t sit on and towels you can’t use.”

Then, Zoe’s red, puffy eyes grew wide as she put a hand on my shoulder. “Arcade, I really wish I didn’t have to say this right now, but your token is blinding me.”

I tried to look down at the Triple T, but it shined so bright I had to shield my eyes.

Of course! That’s why I’m so hot!