Jealousy Can Be Flattering

Chapter Two [In Editing]

Back at the school, my absence had been noted. Fourth period had come and gone in the time that I was... undergoing counselling.

Marching into the Quad I retrieved my bag and made my way towards 5th period maths. Not even out of the Quad and I ran into the Principal, Mr Moran.

"My office, now." And with that, he turned on his heel and strode off to his office.

I made my way through the school to the other side and entered through the front office. Signs on the walls point me towards the Principals office, allowing me to avoid an awkward conversation with the school secretary. Down the haIl and off to the left, I found myself in Mr Moran's office.

Inside was well furnished and very businesslike, with all the latest pieces from our towns giant department store. A wide mahogany desk took up much of the far wall, behind it sat a tall leather desk chair, facing two plush armchairs on the near side of the desk. The walls were covered by book cases and photographs.

Mr Moran quickly dashed to the desk chair and spun it to face the wall. Slowly turning the chair, with his elbows resting on the arms and his fingers interlaced he drawled, "I've been expecting you."

I'd heard all about his little impressions from other kids who get sent here daily. He likes to try and lighten the mood by ripping off some movie or book, and even once a video game, and acting like a well known character.

He did his research and made sure to use a franchise relevant to the visitor. Although I wasn't a regular there so he just did his usual go-to of the Godfather. "Sit." He said sharply.

I took the seat on the right, making sure not to lose eye contact. "You are probably wondering why you are here? Well, your absence from your last class was noted and I felt I had to investigate it since you're a first time offender."

"Didn't anyone tell you where I went?"

"Oh, I heard many different accounts. But I want to hear it from you. I'm giving you the benefit of the doubt here, don't ruin things for yourself. Is there anything I should know about?"

"I just needed some time away Sir. That's all."

"Where were you?"

"The counsellors office, of course."

"Really. Because I spoke to Miss Helfin and she said you hadn't been to see her today."

"Okay, so I ditched one class. Big deal. Sometimes things get too much and you need some time out. I was down on the ovals trying to relax."

"Oh you were, were you? And what about your friend right here? Why was he missing from class and turned up on the school grounds with you?"

This was the first time I'd remembered that I wasn't alone in this. Matthew was sitting in the chair next to me with his mouth open wide in shock at my small rebellion.