The Order of the Trees Read Online Free PDF Page B

looking at her deer-like eyes. “Don’t say it. We’ll figure out a way to stop it.”
    â€œBut how?”
    Now it was Phillip’s turn to be strong. “We don’t have much time, but I have an idea. It is going to be incredibly risky and it may not work, but what other choice to we have?”
    Cedar nodded. “Go on.”

Chapter 8
    When Phillip finished explaining, he looked down at his watch and said, “I have to go, Cedar. Visiting hours are over and your parents will be back any second.”
    Cedar nodded, her big eyes begging him not to leave her there.
    â€œYou only have one day left here if all goes as planned. You can make it. Just think about our trees, the forest. Think about Stella. And ways to make our plan work.”
    â€œI think you’ve already done most of that.”
    Sara and Kevin looked in the tiny window on the closed door and smiled.
    â€œTen o’clock Monday night,” Phillip said, standing up.
    â€œTen o’clock.” Tears sprouted in her eyes again.
    Back at home, Phillip stared at his desk. His cat Rufus rubbed his legs, and jumped on his lap. “How will I convince these sixth graders to help us? They don’t even like us,” he asked Rufus as he purred and nuzzled his hand. He stared at the blank piece of paper in front of him.
    He wrote, “Important Meeting at Recess. Cedar Montgomery needs our help.” then crossed it out. I need to get their attention, Phillip thought. “Your classmate, Cedar Montgomery is in danger. She needs your help. Meet by the swing set at 12:30 Monday.”
    Phillip’s hand ached as he copied the message over and over on to small slips of paper. Before he knew it, his little brother had popped up behind him.
    â€œWhatcha doin’?” He said. His pudgy hand reached for the notes.
    â€œNothing Colin, get outta here.”
    He ushered his little brother out of the room and closed the door. “Mom,” Phillip heard, “Phillip is writing notes!”
    â€œArgh!” Phillip moaned as he slammed his fist on the table.
    Before school the next day Phillip couldn’t eat breakfast. His stomach squirmed as he thought of the meeting, what he’d say, and whether they’d all laugh at him. Just think about Cedar, he thought. She’s suffering and will only get worse unless you do this. He readied himself for battle.
    When Phillip got to school, he slid into his chair and tried to concentrate on breathing. He looked around. Mrs. Doneaway wasn’t in the room yet. This was one of his chances.
    He looked over to Dan Bloom, seated in the row next to him. Dan was doodling on his folder.
    â€œPsst, Dan!” Phillip said in a forced whisper. He handed him the note across the row, his hand shaking. Dan read it and his eyes grew large. He nodded and shoved the paper deep in his pocket.
    Phillip handed out five more papers before Mrs. Doneaway came charging in the room. Miranda glared at Phillip from the back corner. She whispered something to Sam who snickered.
    â€œIs there something wrong, girls? Or are you ready to start class?”
    â€œOh, we’re ready to start class, Mrs. Doneaway, we just wanted you to know that someone is passing notes in this class.” Miranda looked at Phillip sideways, her pink glossy lips upturned slightly.
    Phillip stared straight ahead, but several heads turned towards him. He face felt like it had burst into flames. Mrs. Doneaway walked slowly, her heels clicking on the way, to Phillip’s desk. She paused, looked down from beneath her pointy glasses and said, “Really.” She stopped for dramatic effect, and the air seemed to evaporate right out of the room. “Is that true, Phillip? Passing notes?” Each word was said as if it took up her whole mouth, and tasted good.
    Phillip squirmed. “I, ah, well… “ Heat rose from his forehead, beaming red.
    â€œThat’s no answer, Phillip. I’m