Later That Week
Just when I think today is going to be a normal day at school, Mom has to throw a wrench into my hope.
"Don't forget! Kieran's mom is bringing you back," Mom tells me. "I need to take the car in later."
What? When did this happen?
"Oh, don't give me that look. You'll be fine."
Oh, yeah. Yesterday, something was going clunk in the back on the way home, and how convenient that the repair shop had a spot open during school pick-up hour. Long story. Every day at school feels like a long story when I'm not with my old class, but...
Go in, do your job, go home, right?
***
Ms. Tudor rambles about rocks while Annoying takes us outside for kickball. If we kick it over the fence, it's indoor yoga next time.
Disgusting.
"Don't even think about it, Josh!"
I only get one crack at the ball before time's up and my side loses.
Lunch. Recess with the trains.
Mrs. G wants us to work in our pairs so we can draft ideas for our perfect places. Max would rather tease Gregory. The best brother gets to team with Kieran. Shame. The kid doesn't know how blessed he is. On a serious note, Kieran hasn't brought up me ridesharing with him. He's barely said anything to me all day, not that I care.
***
"Kieran!"
That's my cue. I say bye to Josh. KJ Daniels fights on spring break. We've got candy on him. I shuffle through the crowd to join Kieran. Annoying doesn't know about me ridesharing. Kieran's mom explains the situation. I don't think he buys the story, but we're sticking to it.
"Kieran, look out! I have papers there..."
Hello to you, too.
I don't know what's happening up front, but Kieran's mom is already barking at Kieran. I settle into the backseat and mind my own business. The car smells like fruity air freshener and fries. Logic says stay calm. I'll stay quiet, stare out the window, think about KJ's roundhouse kick to Yusuf Barnes before Barnes even knows what'll hit him.
"Chase!"
"Yeah?"
What about me?
"Good to see you! How are you doing?"
YOU ARE READING
Castling: A Novel (NaNoWriMo21)
Teen FictionIt's a slice-of-life centered around "Chase the Ace," who finds himself changing schools against his will mid-year to help make the most of that brain of his. It'll be good for him, they say. He won't be so bored. He'll get to be with an old friend...
