Read an Excerpt
From Chapter 44: The Eleven O'clock Evening News
MISSING — ROMIETTE CAPPELLE AND JULIO MONTAGUE.
Details in a moment.
— In this modern-day, mystery version of Romeo and Juliet, two young people have vanished. We ask for the help of the public. If anyone has any knowledge of these two young people, last seen walking past London Woods between six and seven this evening, please call District Four police. Romiette Cappelle is the daughter of our own Cornell Cappelle. Cornell, I know this is difficult, but a few words, please. — "If you have my daughter, or know where she is, or know anything about where she and Julio Montague might be, please call the station. She's sixteen years old, and the light of my life. Please. Please." — Pictures of the two young people will he posted throughout the city. There is a five-thousand-dollar reward for any information leading to the recovery of Romiette and Julio. Romiette is sixteen years old, five feet five inches, with brown skin and hazel eyes. Julio is also sixteen, is about six feet tall, and has curly black hair. — TV Six has been investigating the increase of gang activity in our schools and our city. After further investigation, we find that reports of gang fights in the high schools and gang recruitment at the junior high level has been discovered. Much of the increased gun violence has been attributed to gang activity. The mayor has appointed a task force to study the matter. News Six will continue to investigate. — In the weather tonight, our TV Six meteorologists warn of heavy rain, and maybe even thunderstorms, unusual for this time of the year, heading this way. Not good for two kids who may he in the woods lost or hurt. Details when we return from station break.
Copyright © 1999 by Sharon M. Draper
