Esterville (Book 1)

Chapter 2: Trouble

Oliver Harper and Amelia Parker have been friends for eight years.

Like an older sister, Amelia would pick Oliver up from school, traded laughs, and spend time with him.

Despite this, Amelia never discusses her past with anyone, not even to Oliver.

Like for example, his mother would ask her personal questions like, where her parents are, or what city in England was she raised, but Amelia shrugs her shoulders and continues her work.

But nevertheless, she currently stays at the Harper home, where she cares for Oliver while his mother leaves for work, or buy groceries.

"Amelia, you didn't have to wait for me," he reassured.

"You could have stayed at home-"

"And read your creepy novels? No thanks."

Oliver paused for a moment, then rolled his eyes.

"They're not creepy, Amelia."

"Oh, you're right; they're bloody horrifying."

On the day they first met, Amelia was outspoken, blunt, and dramatic; she liked saying things what's on her mind and doesn't hesitate to be ruthless.

With his feet standing on the concrete floor, Oliver departed from school entrance and headed home.

Keeping up with him, Amelia tries to liven the conversation.

"So, how's Harriet?" she asked.

Oliver blushed and looked down at his sneakers.

"Do you know her name?"

The woman smiled secretly.

"Nope, I just love to see your face whenever I say, Harriet-"

"Shut up." moaned Oliver.

"Hello, Oliver." said a voice behind him.

The sixteen-year-old boy swerve his head to see Harriet, carrying her red backpack with black polka dots on it.

As the wind swept her hair, it reminded Oliver of a massive, roaring fire, overwhelming his eyes completely.

"Hello, Harriet," said Oliver sheepishly.

"Hi," greeted Harriet hesitantly.

Suddenly, her brown eyes notice Amelia standing behind her.

"So, who's she? Your girlfriend?"

Amelia looked at him for a moment, then laughed.

"Of course not," she smirked, shaking Harriet's hand.

"I'm Amelia Parker."

"I'm Harriet, it's a pleasure to meet you."

"Likewise."

"You're really pretty."

"Thank you," blushed Amelia. "Oliver thinks you're beautiful too."

Oliver blushed, then told her to shut up again.

"What?" cried Amelia. "It's true!"

Oliver pretended he didn't hear her.

"How's the fundraising coming along?" he asked, changing the subject.

Every Monday, Harriet and her group of friends try to plan another exciting event; last year they held a successful winter formal, which raised almost eighty thousand dollars.