Now it becomes clear how much you've grown as a writer and a person. I like how the two are so optimistic that their dream friend is real. Come to think of it, maybe when I was their age, I had similar hopes as well. Collin's mom really had a sympathetic backstory. I like her already! I hope she plays a significant role.

Am I correct to assume that there's a three year time jump between this and the prologue?