unfortunately , the ink-black womb that surrounded him seemed to just swallow all sound . and she 'd nearly destroyed their friendship , too , a friendship that had lasted since preschool . the primary function of the area was obvious , and milo took advantage of it right away . he runs across , picks her up and chucks her over the rail . `` star , that ca n't be true , '' i said . her voice rose to the misty clouds , such perfect music of pure pleasure . i pushed him off and hurried down the stairs . 