The Shrinker

CHAPTER FIVE (PART-1)

Chapter 5

"It's your birthday TODAY?" Meredith looked absolutely aghast.

The rest of their first day in sixth form had passed uneventfully, dipping their toes into their subjects. They and the terrible trio made a point of staying out of each other's way during lunch. Now at the end of the school, at half three, the talk on the bus turned to what they'd be doing for the rest of the day.

With the bus having pulled into the stop near the high street, Jamie, Meredith and Shelley were the last students to exit it, sparing Shelley the stress of being within the crowd. Bob Wilda watched them depart with a harsh glare.

"Next time don't you bloody be late! Don't make me wait for you again!" Bob snapped in Meredith's direction, a forehead vein throbbing.

Meredith glanced back, smiling politely, "Don't worry, good sir. I know the way here now, so it won't happen again. Have a lovely day!"

Bob gaped stupidly as Meredith stepped off the bus with a cheery wave, before shaking his head with a huff as he closed the doors in her face. As the bus pulled away, Jamie give it the finger in clear view of the mirror. The crowd of students had dispersed on the way to their homes; they were the only three still there.

"Come on, don't pretend you didn't say that," Meredith protested, hands on hips as she pouted, "Why didn't you tell me sooner?"

Why does this girl act like we've known each other for ages? Jamie thought in exasperation. Overhead the skies remained grey and overcast, but clear rays of sunlight were just poking through.

"Didn't see the need," replied Jamie, shrugging, "Not like it's a big deal."

Meredith gave her an incredulous look, "Course it is! Come on Jamie, it's not everyday you turn sixteen, is it? You should throw a great big party, have as many guests as you can, dance the night away! This is a huge milestone in your life towards adulthood."

"As I said, not a big deal," Jamie repeated bitterly, "Seriously Meredith, 'sides you and Shell nobody gives a fuck. Why should I?"

"Good lord, you're quite the ray of sunshine, aren't you?" Meredith remarked with a raised eyebrow, "You could put clowns out of work. Honestly, I've met cancer patients with more cheer. Try taking the Ace of Base to heart, Jamie; just smile and the world will smile with you."

"The what? And where would you've met cancer patients?" asked Jamie.

The smile faded from Meredith's face; she looked troubled and anxious, "Like I said, my Mum's health's not been the same since she got divorced." Her tone told Jamie this was one subject she didn't want to discuss further.

Shelley quietly spoke, stammering nervously, "W-We're going to be l-late for your party at m-mine, J." Her eyes still faced the ground.

Jamie knew the party she'd be getting was more the equivalent of a children's one, but appreciated the thought, "Ok Shell, we'll head off. Just gotta swing by mine first to bring Senna along."

"Wish I could come too, I'd love to have a party for the three of us and I'd really love to meet your cat," Meredith lamented in disappointment, "Sounds like a delightful, adorable little thing; but I'm expected back at my flat, got to do all the chores. It's late but I'll get you a present in my spare time, ok?"

Jamie shook her head, "It's ok, we only met today, you really don't have- -"

"I insist, and that's that." Meredith's infectious smile returned, "Absolutely wonderful to've met you Shelley, really looking forward to learning so much about animals from you. Have a fantastic time at your party Jamie, and for goodness sake try to enjoy yourself, ok? See you both tomorrow!"