Red Sparks

Chapter 49: Music & Shopping

Lynndra’s POV

I got up quickly as I heard my alarm ring and hastily turned it off. I trudged all the way to the bathroom. I smacked my lips as I washed my face. I would be taking Jane shopping today to ease her mind. She was very upset on the phone last night. I can’t believe Taegan’s just left for New York. What a sudden change, I thought. I freshened up and got dressed before going down the stairs. Mom had already left the house to visit a client and would only be back for dinner. I went to the kitchen to grab breakfast before going to pick up Jane. As I made myself French toast, I saw a note by the kitchen counter. I picked it up and read through it quickly.

“Honey, I almost forgot to give you your allowance, it’s in the cookie jar. Have fun sweetie!”

Alright mom! I thought. I took the money and stuffed it into my jeans pocket. I ate my breakfast and checked my Instagram to pass the time.

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Jane’s POV

I got up from bed as the alarm went off. I quickly switched it off and headed towards the bathroom. I stared in the bathroom mirror; my eyes were swollen from crying myself to sleep last night. I sighed. I splashed some water on my face and quickly dry it. Much better, I thought. Lynndra had said she would bring me out today, to help clear my head; and I was meeting Harry later that day as well. I guess I’ll have to cancel going to the beach then, I muttered to myself.

I took a quick shower, got dressed and went downstairs. Buster barked at me as I went to the kitchen, Mr. and Mrs. Brown was already there; having breakfast. “Morning Jane!” Mr. Brown said cheerfully. “Good morning” I said, smiling to both of them. I hope they won’t notice my swollen eyes, I thought. Mr. Brown had made banana pancakes, and I helped myself to some as I took my seat across them.

Mrs. Brown turned to me. “So Jane, are you excited for tomorrow? I’ve spoken with Dr. McOwen about you and Lynndra volunteering there during summer. He said to be there by 9 o’clock” Mrs. Brown said. I nodded. “Yeah, Lynndra and I can’t wait to start volunteering there” I said. Mr. Brown smiled at me as he put the newspaper he was reading down on the table. “So Jane, your parents called this morning with exciting news. You’re moving to England ey?” he said, still smiling. “That’s right Jane. Are you excited?” Mrs. Brown asked. I had forgotten all about it to be honest, after what happened yesterday and all. I just smiled as I took a bite of my pancakes. “I’m going to spend the day with Lynndra today” I said, as I got up and walked to the sink to rinse my plate. “Sure Jane” Mrs. Brown said, “Here, take the house keys. Just in case we’re not home when you get back” I took the keys from her and put it in my pocket. “Oh, and Jane, I put some brownies for you in a bag. I know how much you love them” she said, winking at me. I smiled gratefully and took the bag out of the fridge. “Thanks. See you later” I said, waving to them. I went to my room and grabbed my bag and ukulele before leaving the house. I decided to go to Tagazo’s Music store, where I had bought my ukulele. I hadn’t been there in ages.

As I walked into the store, I heard the familiar Beatles song, ‘Let it Be’ being played. The owner, Mr. Oregano was nice man who moved here from Japan and he was a huge fan of the Beatles. He had every record from the Beatles, which he proudly displayed in his store. “Mr. Oregano?” I called out, as I walked around the store. Just as I passed the display glass case featuring flutes, I saw a face staring back at me. “Aah!” I yelled as I doubled back and landed on my butt. I groaned. I heard a distinct laughter, and I realized I recognized it. It was none other than Phillip Carson. Just my luck, I muttered under my breath. I hastily stood up and glared at him. I was about to give him a piece of my mind when Mr. Oregano appeared. “Jane! How are you?” he said cheerfully. “Ogenki desu. Mr. Oregano-san, ogenki desuka?” I said, fighting back the urge to punch Phillip. “Ogenki desu” he said smiling. I laughed. Mr. Oregano had taught me a few Japanese phrases while I was browsing for a ukulele. He was very happy when I could pronounce it well.