Click, I've Caught You

Arc: 1 (Aim)(Needs Editing) Chapter 3

Friday had finally arrived. Thank goodness. Jewels wasn't sure how long she'd be able to put up with school if that week stretched any longer.

It had gotten cold again reminding them that it was still October. Lyna had been thoroughly shocked remembering the past three days had been in the seventies.

Poor thing wasn't used to Crane Town weather.

Crane Town was pretty remote. The little place was under the radar and its residents were fine with that. The only problem was that they seemed to get spring, summer, winter and fall all in one week.

As it was, Jewels fluffed her fur somewhat grateful her mum had possessed a slightly thicker winter coat than most foxes. She winced slightly at the memory of her mother. She smiled a little despite it though, she knew she'd be glad if she wasn't moping around. Her smile broadened as she looked at her classmates eagerly awaiting the bell.

Jewels had gotten good at predicting the bell in the short time school had been in session. Her classmates knew it too. A few were watching her carefully, waiting for her move. Jewels felt somewhat uncomfortable with the attention but did her best to ignore it.

Mr Johnson announced that they were to do page 4 in their packets and finish questions 14-20.

Homework on Friday. Figures.

Finally she stood up, putting her chair on her desk. As soon as she did, the kids watching her raced for the door. The second they opened the door, the bell rang causing a stampede of children. Once again, Jewels lagged behind to clean the room and avoid the crazed mob.

She trotted to the doorway where James was waiting with Chika and Lyna. Lyna had easily slotted right into their little group these past few days. She made dirty jokes with James (laughing when a few went over Jewels' head), was content to shop with Chika (so the girl finally let Jewels draw in peace) and was content to sit with Jewels when she wasn't in a talkative mood.

As she made her way over she noticed hopeful looks on the faces of her friends and it made her slightly anxious.

"Hey Jewels," James began. "My old man is leaving town tonight to stay in the main city for a couple of weeks."

"My mum is going to see some relatives for the next few weeks too." Chika chimed.

"My parents were supposed to meet me today but they've gotten into a car accident." Lyna added. At Jewels' concerned look she waved her hand lazily. "Don't worry, they've managed to be mostly fine but medical bills, car repair bills and a plane ticket don't all go together in an easy price way."

"Plane ticket?" James asked curiously.

"I grew up in Nogain City." she elaborated. James and Chika went bug eyed. It wasn't the most populated and famous city, like New York or Los Angeles, but it would take Crane Town folks more than a couple hours in car to reach the more densely populated and more renown city.

At their startled looks she elaborated on how she found the little place.

"My dad grew up here. He only stayed till he was seven when his mother and father moved away but he wants to see if the town's changed."

Satisfied with the answer, James turned back to Jewels.

"Well as you can see, all of our folks are busy so could we please stay at your place?" He begged.

Jewels blinked in confusion. Then she shrugged. She wouldn't mind and Amelia would be happy to have reassurance that she was indeed making friends. Honestly it was like the woman believed that she the biggest loner in the school.