Poppy Playtime ~ An Angel's Bleeding Heart

Chapter 7 : Chutes and Trash Compactors

It was always such an enjoyable time, whenever the clock struck noon Gabe would quite literally drop everything and sprint off to the cafeteria, brown paper bag in hand.  It was one of the few and only times he can talk freely with his friends without the hindrance of work.

The cafeteria was just as bustling as it ever was, he spots all three of his friends sitting together on one table.  Tyler up to his usual sibling antics again with his little sister Joyce, hanging a slimy pickle over her head while she's not looking, and Freddy just watching it all happen.  Joyce's angry retribution came swiftly, resulting in a busted head for Tyler and a quick laugh from Freddy.

As he nears the table he can hear a conversation between them.

"I heard that they are calling back all the Catnap dolls."  Tyler said rubbing his head.  "Said something about the kids having nightmares or something."

"There's actually more to it than that."  Freddy replies.  "The parent consumers reported a bunch of medical problems involved.  High blood pressure, severe fever, there had even been some cases where the kid would have a stroke."

"Jesus, no wonder they're canceling Catnap then."  Joyce replied while sipping her drink.  "Do you think it has something to do with his scented spray?"

"Must be."  Freddy answered.  "But whatever the case may be, the higher-ups are working double time to stop all the lawsuits coming in."

Gabe walks closer to them, catching their attention.  Tyler raised his soda drink to him.  "Well about time you got down here buddy!"  He welcomed warmly.

"Sorry guys, got caught up in the lunch rush."  Gabe apologized as he sat himself down next to Freddy.  "So how are things going with ya'll?"  He asked courteously.

"We've actually been wanting to ask you that very question."  Freddy said.  "I heard lately that things aren't going so well on your parents farm."

Gabe grumbled, but still kept a steady countenance.  "Yeah, last year's crop didn't yield it's usual quota, and from I over heard from dad the market ain't looking so great either.  This job is basically the only sure income we have."

Tyler was actually amazed by this.  "Providing for a whole farm, two adults, and an older brother and younger sister?!  If I was your old man I would say it'll be time to put my ass in gear!"

"Well it ain't that simple, some things just aren't in our control."  Gabe said munching on carrot dipped in ranch dressing.  "And for the record my dad has been working like an ox since then.  I just wish I'm doing something better."

Joyce then put a comforting hand on his shoulder.  "I think you're doing great given the fact you are providing for them!"

However Gabe felt doubtful.  "I don't know, I know God will provide, but, Mom and Dad are already planning on moving if things don't turn up soon.  So, I guess we'll just have to wait and see."

Freddy then suggests.  "You know, we are available on weekends, we can come and help."

"Aw man that'll be awesome!  But, we don't have the money a farmhand, let alone three of them."

"Won't be a problem!"  Tyler declared proudly.  "We'll help, even for free!"

Freddy eyed him suspiciously and yet cheekily.  "Yeah, suuuurreee you would.  If it will mean you hooking up with Gabe's little sis, Teresa."

"Aw shut up man!"

All four of them laughed in unison, much to Tyler's chagrin.  But no matter what troubles there may be, Gabe knew that his friends will be there to support him whenever he needed them.  He cherished these memories he had with them.