Romeo and Juliet: Modified , Lashton

Act 8: A School During a Hallowen Contest

Ashton went back to school on Wednesday, after staying home Tuesday and promising his mother that he would call straight away if anything happened. He was actually a bit excited to be back since Wednesday would be Halloween.

See, every Halloween, the school hosts this costume contest and tons of kids dress up for it. He thinks it's quite lovely and enjoys looking at all the creative costumes people wear. Although he doesn't partake in the contest.

Ashton strode into the building that morning with his head hung low, avoiding any eye contact with people, although he could hear the whispering that arose at his arrival. He shuffled to his locker then proceeded to do his usual preparations for the day. He got out the first three binders he would need for his classes, tidied the insides of his locker a bit, and gave himself a once over in the small mirror that hung on the door.

He looked okay. His eye wasn't swollen anymore, and, with the help of his mum and Lauren, it also didn't look too bruised. The cuts were scabbed over and his lips were chapped, but it could have been worse. He sighed and shut the locker.

Ashton traveled through the hallway quickly, avoiding everyone as best as he could. He had plenty of time to spare before first but he had to finish some Maths homework so he wanted to do it in the classroom. Plus, he didn't really want to stand around awkwardly waiting for no one. Not to mention he was still afraid of being hit again.

As he was heading towards Economics, Ashton felt someone grip his shoulder. He flinched and let out a tiny squeal, squeezing his eyes shut as Ashton collided with the person who pulled him. He froze in place and his body tensed. He readied himself for the blow that was sure to come.

"Hey, you okay?" The voice said with concern.

Ashton knew who it was now and relaxed. He sighed and opened his eyes, now face to face with Luke.

"Yeah, you just scared me." Ashton answered.

Luke looked down shamefully and said a quiet 'oh'.

They stood in a momentary silence before Ashton asked, "Did you need me?

Luke cleared his throat, "Um, yeah. Mrs. Hardedge said we don't have to practice today but it is greatly recommended, or something."

"Oh. Okay," Ashton said. "It's up to you."

Luke scratched the back of his neck and thought about it.

"Wait, no, never mind. Harry's going trick or treating tonight so I'll be taking him round the neighbour." Ashton answered.

Luke nodded. "That's okay."

"Okay, then. Got that settled. So I'll be go-"

"Wait," Luke said and gripped Ashton's shoulder again.

"Yes?" Ashton asked, annoyed.

"Well-um, shit- well maybe I could, you know," He stuttered, looking around the hall like it would give him the words to say.

"Well what?" Ashton pried on.

"MaybeIcouldgotrickortreatingwithyouandyourbrother." Luke rushed out.

Ashton cocked up an eyebrow. "Slower please."

Luke sighed deeply, "Maybe I could go trick or treating with you and your brother?"

Ashton felt taken back, "Oh," he said, "Sure, I guess. I'm surprised you want to. It's not all that great."

Luke smiled brightly at him. He even went to go hug Ashton, it seemed, but then he suddenly realised what he was doing and coiled his arms back into himself.