Girl Get Rid Of That Jerk by Melissa Johns

On Saturday, Allison swung by the Owens family home to chat with Lizzy's doctor. The doctor suggested that having a playmate could really help with Lizzy's

emotional struggles.

Allison knelt down beside Lizzy, her voice soft and inviting. "Hey, Lizzy, how about

I introduce you to a new friend?"

Lizzy looked up, her lips forming a tiny pout. "A new friend?"

"Yep, her name's Julia. She's about your age and a really sweet girl."

Lizzy's eyes twinkled with curiosity. "Do you like her, sis?"

Allison chuckled, "Absolutely. Julia is as lovely as you are, Lizzy. I like her a lot, and I adore you too."

Lizzy's face lit up with a shy smile. "In that case, I'd love to be friends with Julia. If you like her, then I'm sure I will too."

Allison gently ruffled Lizzy's hair, beaming. "You're such a good girl, Lizzy."

Back in her room, Allison texted Watson.

[Lizzy's on board. She can't go out at the moment. When can Miss Lin bring Julia over for a playdate?]

got back quickly: [How about

snack on? I'll grab

a list of Julia's favorite

me check with my aunt about timing,

[Sounds good.]

around 3:30, Watson drove Julia over to the Owens'. Holding Julia's hand, he said, "Allison, my aunt's tied up, so she asked me to

"Make yourselves at home. Lizzy's upstairs. I'll

housekeeper served tea as Watson settled into the sofa. Julia, looking adorable in a light pink dress and

Lizzy in tow. Lizzy, spotting a new face, clung

need to be shy, Lizzy. This is your new friend, Julia." Allison gently

sweet nature, flashed a bright smile.

and my mom," Julia said,

Allison with

it's a present from Julia to welcome you," Allison encouraged, guiding Lizzy's hand. "What do

voice soft as

Julia grinned. "Lizzy, we're going to

let's play in room! got tons of

stuff drawing, building telnet

board

you name

"That sounds awesome!"