Chapter 3

CHAPTER 3 Monday morning, Michael, Jane, and the squirrels gathered around the table for breakfast before school. "I've got something for you, Merle and Pearl!" Jane chirped, holding up two sets of tiny clothing. "Do you like them?" "Um... what are they?" Merle asked, munching on an acorn. "Outfits!" Jane replied. "I think they're lovely," Pearl said. "Where did you get them?" "From my dolls." Jane held the miniature dress up to Pearl. "I thought they would be good disguises and look cute on you." Michael laughed so hard he nearly passed the hard- boiled egg he was eating through his nose. "Hrrrgh! Yeah, Merle! You'll look adorable!" "I'm not putting that on!" Merle protested. "You most certainly are!" Pearl crossed her paws. "It would be rude to not accept Jane's offer." "Yeah, Merle! Ruuuuude!" Michael teased. "Thank you, Jane," Pearl said, ignoring Michael. "This is very thoughtful of you."

Merle sighed. "Fine." He grabbed his outfit and disappeared behind a box of Cocoa Fluffies to change. Jane handed Pearl her outfit, and she joined her husband behind the cereal box.

"Michael? Jane?" Mrs. Gomez called from the living room. "Are you finished with breakfast? We need to get going." "Almost!" Michael responded, shoveling the last of his Cocoa Fluffies into his mouth. "Jane, is Mr. Nemesis in your room? Did you shut the door?" Mrs. Gomez asked. "Yes, Mama!" Jane responded. A faint cat yowl sounded from down the hall. As Mrs. Gomez walked into the kitchen, Merle and Pearl stepped out from behind the cereal box, looking like squirrel versions of George and Martha Washington.

"Oh! Aren't you two adorable!" Mrs. Gomez squealed, her voice almost drowned out by the sound of Michael's laughter.