Characters
- Mario Martin AKA Marz - 18 years old high school student in 11th grade, hails from a middle class family, openly gay, lives in Moreton Heights with his parents and older sister attends Moreton Academy, captain of the school’s swim team. He’s 5ft 10 with a swimmers build, African American with curly black hair
- Theodore Spence Jnr. AKA Speng (called Theo by Marz) - 19 years old in high school in 11th grade, recently moved from the inner city to Moreton Heights with his dad, recently enrolled in Moreton Academy, plays soccer. He’s 6 ft 2 with a muscular build, Caucasian with straight black hair combed into corn-rows and a scar on his left cheek.
- Aisha Andrews - 18 years old in high school in 11th grade, her parents are diplomats working overseas so she lives in Moreton Heights with her older sister and family Butler, she attends Moreton Academy. She’s 5ft 4 of European descent with perfect body
- Carla and Chad Matthews - 18 years old twin, in high school in 11th grade, adoptive kids of a rich gay couple, Chad is Mario’s best friend while Carla and Aisha are close friends. They both attend Moreton academy. Asian-American born, Chad is 6ft tall, slim with short curly hair, while Carla is 5ft 3 medium build with long curly black hair. Chad and Aisha are a couple
- Ethan Payne - 18 year old in high school in 11th grade, highly intelligent and 1 year ahead in school, attends Moreton Academy, considers himself a genius. 5ft 7 tall, wiry build.
- Christal King - Theo’s girlfriend, she lives in YDP2 and attends York public school
- Christophe and Miranda Martins (Mario’s parents) - Surgeon and Lawyer, middle class living in Moreton heights
- Theodore Spence Snr. AKA Rufus - Theo’s dad, leader of the Smokez gang
- Ian Vance - Theo’s best friend from YDP2, attends York Public School. Secretly in love with Theo, young member of Rufus’ gang
- Mr. Lee - Physics Teacher
- Mathias Elmswood - Mario’s current home room teacher
- Mr. Sandalwood - Moreton Academy Principal
Mario’s POV
My phone alarm rang out for the second time, ugh I thought, just five more minutes of sleep. I used my hand to pat the spaces beside me on the bed trying to locate the phone, finally my hand caught it and I slid the icon across the screen and turned the alarm off, glancing at the time I jumped out of bed, it was already 6:55 AM and I definitely cannot be late for the first day of school. I sprinted across the room to the bathroom and slid the door open to take a quick shower. It's the first day of school and I am going to be late. That was all that went through my mind as I quickly brushed my teeth and showered. I grabbed the towel and started to dry myself as I went into my room to get dressed.
‘Mario!’ I could hear my Dad call from downstairs, ‘are you ready? Mom had an early morning at court today so she already left, we need to be out of here in 10 minutes.’ ‘
Coming Dad’, I shouted back as I got dressed in my uniform. I quickly got through my morning routine and headed downstairs to the kitchen. Dad met me at the bottom of the stairs.
'Oh no you don’t Marz, I said 10 minutes and it's been almost 20 minutes so no time for food. Head to the car, you can grab something from the cafeteria at school’ he said. We both headed to the garage, as dad locked the door to the house I threw my backpack on the back seat of his car and went to open the garage door. As the door was raised I was surprised to see there was a car parked in the driveway at the house across the street. Dad drove the car out the garage and I lowered the door then locked up, as I headed to get in the car I could see there was a boy wearing a Moreton Academy uniform exiting the house across the street but his back was turned as he was locking up the house. I hopped in shotgun with Dad and he sped off towards the school. As dad drove I said, ‘I didn’t know the Myers house was sold since they moved at the start of the summer.’
‘Oh yes’, he responded. ‘It was sold while you were on holiday with your aunt.’ ‘Have you met the new neighbors?’ I asked Dad. 'No', he responded 'but I hear it’s just a dad and his son. The dad seems like somewhat of a recluse and it seems the son will be attending Moreton Academy, maybe you two will become friends' he said with a smirk on his face. 'Jeez Dad!!! Can you stay out of my life?' I said knowing what his smirk meant. 'Oh come on Marz, you’re 17 and the captain of the swim team there must be at least one boy you like.' My face flushed red, 'Dad you’re so embarrassing sometimes' I said. He laughed and said 'I’m only getting older kiddo and I want to see you enjoy your youth.'
My dad is the best, and sometimes he’s like an older best bud. Let me introduce you to my family, my parents are Christophe and Miranda Martin and my sister Marlene. My dad is 38 years old and the lead surgeon at the City of York Hospital, my dad is more of a free spirit type of guy and he makes time for any and everything I do. My mom on the other hand is 41 years old and a partner at the Martin and Jacobs Law Firm which she is co-founder. Mom is always busy and a devout Christian. My sister is 21 years old and currently studying Arts and Fashion at university. When I came out two years ago to my parents my dad was very accepting but while my mom says she loves me she also said she cannot support the lifestyle I’ve chosen so as you can imagine our relationship is strained. My sister had always known even before I figured it out so she’s always been cool.
As we continued the drive to school my phone alerts to a text from Chad.
Bro where are you? The whole gang's here.
Dad’s pulling up now, I respond as Dad enters the drop off zone.
I look out the window to see my friends as Chad seems to check his phone then look around to see the car. He starts walking over. As I unbuckle my seatbelt Dad says
“Marz I am serious about you having some fun this year, your grades last year were excellent, you’re now captain of the swim team and there’s no more Elias to bully you. You can afford to relax a bit”
“Come on, dad. Why do you need to mention him? And I do have fun.” I said to him,
“Fun” he says sarcastically, “Alright Kiddo, give your old man a hug” he says as he reaches across to hug me.
I return his hug, “I love you dad”, I say to him as he releases me.
“Love you too Kiddo, have fun today” he says with a wink
“You tell him Mr. M” Chad says now that he reached the car and opened my door to poke his head in.
I grab Chad’s head and push him out and exit the car then shut the door. Dad honks as he drives off for work and I wave him goodbye. We walk over to my other friends Aisha and Carla and we exchange hugs.
“Where’s Ethan?” I asked
“His flight was delayed returning from the Bahamas so he’ll be landing today” Carla responded
“Come on Marz, he told us in the group chat yesterday” Aisha says
“I must have missed that message” I respond
“As always” Chad laughs as he drapes one arm around my shoulder and the other around Aisha.
I gently elbow him in the ribs as we all begin to laugh and head towards the main building. We enter the block and head directly for the lockers. I check my schedule and take all my notebooks leaving only English and Chemistry in my bag. After finishing at our lockers we headed to our home room. As we went in and took our seats I noticed there were two extra seats in the classroom, one was beside Carla and the other beside me. As we sat down the bell rang and in walked the principal, Mr. Sandalwood and another man.
“Good Morning Year 11” Mr. Sandalwood greeted us as all the students stood up, “This is your new home room teacher for this academic year Mr. Mathias Elmswood. I looked at the teacher and I froze, it was as if I was caught in a some sort of weird dream because I was sure I was looking at Elias Elmswood, my classmate from last year who bullied me.
“Good morning class, it is a pleasure to meet you all. Please call me Mathias. We’ll do individual introductions throughout the week during home room period so I can get to know you all” Mr. Elmswood said. As he looked around I guess the shock, surprise or horror was visible on all our faces as he laughed and said “No I’m not Elias, he’s my younger brother and he now lives overseas with our parents” I could sense the class relax as we started to take our seats. Mathias informed us he’ll be taking the register as we settle in for our usual conversations then the principal left. As Mathias continued to take the register of students, Mr. Sandalwood returned with a new student and went over to Mathias and spoke to him in whispers while the student waited. As Mr. Sandalwood left, the kid walked over to Mathias. I found myself staring at him, Matthias introduced himself to the new kid then said “Class I guess I’m not the only newbie joining you this year” then told the kid to introduce himself. As the kid stood there he looked around he said “My name is Theodore Spence, y’all can call me Speng”. Mathias said, “I’m sorry, I’m not sure that is appropriate.” The kid only looked at the teacher with a blank expression. Mathias then pointed to the seat next to me and told the new kid he could sit there. As he made his way down the aisle I realized he was looking at me and must have realized I was staring so I quickly looked away.
Theo’s POV
I was up very early even though I didn’t sleep much, its now 7AM. I’ve already showered, eaten and gotten dressed for school but now I have to wait on Rufus to give me my damn money to go to school and that asshole is still asleep. I left my room and headed over to his.
“Yo Rufus, wake up man I gotta go to school!” I shouted as I pounded on his door, no answer.
“Rufus! Rufus! Man, wake the hell up! I continued to shout as I continued to bang on his door.
I hear some movement in his room and a few seconds later he opens the door and to no one's surprise all he’s wearing is an open robe with no underwear.
“Boy, whats all this ruckus out here for, can’t a man sleep?” He says sleepily
“Man can you put some clothes on or at least close the damn robe? I ain't need to be seeing your junk and I gotta go to school and since you took my cards I ain’t got no money" I said to him as he realized his robe is open and began to tie it while walking back into the room.
“You know damn well why I took them cards boy so don’t act dumb with me, go get your card from my desk in the study” he said walking back to the bed.
“Yeah, because you insist on moving us to this bougie ass neighborhood and that bougie school, I was fine in projects man” I said as I crossed his room to his study to retrieve my card.
“Speng, you gotta understand that is your chance to play a bigger role and move up our business. This is not just for me but for you too.” He said as he got back into his bed.
Looking over at him I noticed for the first time there were two women sleeping in his bed and countless bottles of alcohol on the table beside the bed and what seems to be drugs.
“Damn Rufus, you said you would stop this shit man, come on. Who the hell are they?” I said to him.
“Man, I thought you were going to school, they ain’t your problem by the way your car is parked outside.” He responded
I walked towards the door, I turned and said “I thought things would have been different since mom died but you’ve just gotten worse man.” I stepped out into the hallway and made my way to my room to grab my backpack. As I got to the window where my backpack hung up, I glanced through the window and noticed a kid wearing the same uniform as me opening his garage door at the same time my phone buzzes, I pulled it from my pocket to see a text from Christal.
Hey baby, I miss you. I wanna hang out later. Can I come to your place?
Sure babe, I’ll send you the location once I get back to the crib. I replied.
She responds with a love ya and see ya later with a kissy face emoji
I reply with a kissy face emoji.
I realize that I keep glancing over at the kid next door. He’s kinda cute is the thought that flashes through my mind. I shake my head and think what the hell was that while I grab my backpack and headed downstairs. As I opened the door and headed to my car I see the kid from next door hop into a car and they speed off down the road. I looked at my watch only to realize it is almost 8AM. Fuck, first day at this school and I’m gonna be late, I thought. I hopped in my car and tossed my bag in the passenger seat and headed off to school. I got to the school but finding a spot to park was hard and I had to park a distance off then walk back to the main office building. As I got to the building and walked up to the desk, who I assumed was the secretary greeted me.
"Good Morning young man, how may I help you?"
“Hello, I am new here. My name is Theodore Spence” I replied.
"Okay, Mr. Spence. Welcome to Moreton Academy, let me check for your name real quick.” She responds as she types something into the laptop at the desk. After a few seconds she says, “Great, your name is here. Are you aware that your transcript from York did not include your 11th year so you’ll be starting in year 11 at Moreton?”
“Are you saying I’m being held back a year?” I asked. Fucking Rufus, this is all your fault I thought as the secretary explained that I’ll have to re-do year 11 and that this was all in the email they sent to my father when he came and signed the papers.
If only Rufus hadn’t gotten into shit with the South Americans this would not be happening to me, I was comfortable at York and living in the projects. I had my bros and my girl and that asshole up-ended my life to come life in the bougie ass neighborhood and go to this school with a bunch of rich snot nose kids, sometimes I sweat I hate that moth*rfu**er who calls himself my dad.
“Young man” I hear the secretary say a bit loud. “Are you okay?” She asked quizzically looking at me.
“Yes, I’m fine. Sorry just lost in thought” I responded.
"Okay, as I was saying come with me let’s take your ID photo and retrieve your class schedule."
I walk with her into a smaller office as she retrieves a camera and points to an area with a black background for me to stand. She takes the photo then proceeds to print off my ID card then hands it to me.
“This must be worn at all times while on the school grounds” she says as she hands me the ID card and what looked to be my schedule and directs me back to the front room. “You’ll be in Mr. Elmswood class” she says just as the door opens and a big man wearing a suit with a bald head walks in.
“Oh great, Mr. Sandalwood, this is the transfer student from York Public, Theodore Spence” the secretary says. Mr. Sandalwood extends his hand for a handshake which I reluctantly took as he tells me he’s the principal and to follow him so he can take me to my homeroom. After walking through the office door and taking the next hallway Mr. Sandalwood opened the door and led me into a classroom, he went over to speak to the teacher as I glanced around the room at the other kids I’ve been sentenced to the rest of the year with. As I glanced around I noticed a kid looking at me and to my shock it was the same kid from across the street. As the principal walked towards me he gestured towards the teacher and I walked over to him. He told me his name and said he prefers to go by Mathias. Mathias then turned to the class and said, “Class I guess I’m not the only newbie joining you this year” then asked me to introduce myself. As I looked around, I noticed the kid was still staring, so I introduced myself “My name is Theodore Spence, y’all can call me Speng”. “I’m sorry, I’m not sure that is appropriate.” Mathias said I just looked at him. He then pointed to an empty seat which was right next to the kid from this morning and told me I can sit there. As I walked to the seat, the kid seemed to realize that I'd noticed his staring and quickly looked away. A small smile crept onto my lips as I sat down. As I sat down and Mathias finished taking the register then pointed to the kid next to me and said “You’re Mario, right”.
“Yes but you can call me Marz” he responded
“Great, I need you to show Theodore around okay”
“Okay, sir” he said without even glancing in my direction.
So his name is Mario. Mario my neighbor
Our Home room period went by quickly, I noticed my neighbor stuck to talking to 3 persons in front of where we sat, a pretty girl and two kids who looked like they’re twins. At different times he would glance in my direction but he made great efforts to look away whenever I caught him looking. Since our next class was English we stayed in our home room and the teacher came. I always hated English, since I already spoke the damn language. Why did I need someone to teach me? Needless to say that class went by as quick as it came. For my next period, I had mechanical engineering and I needed to find that lab. As the English teacher left and the kids started leaving I looked around for Mario but he was nowhere to be found. I quickly grabbed my backpack and headed outside to see if I could catch up to him so he could direct me to the lab. As I reached the door, I could see him and those others heading towards the lockers, I quickly maneuvered my way to him through the crowd of kids in the hallway. I grabbed his arm as he was walking and said
“Hey, you’re Mario right? Mathias asked if you could show me around.” As he turned to look at me I noticed he looked like he was about to faint, I quickly let go and asked “Are you okay?”. “It’s Marz and I’m fine” he said trying to play it off, “Can I see your schedule?” He asked, I fished into my pocket and handed him the schedule. While he looked it over, the other guy with his arm around the girl extended his arm and said
“So, you’re Theo? I’m Chad, this lovely lady here is Aisha and that’s my baby sis Carla”.
I took his hand and proceeded to correct him “Just call me Speng” at the same time Carla lightly punched his arm and said
“Don’t listen to this dolt, we’re twins”. I gave her a small smile.
Mario turned to look at me and said “Guys, he has class in the mech lab all the way across campus so I’ll have to go with him.”
The others nodded and Chad said “good luck man, that's quite the walk since the ATV cars aren’t yet in service. We’re gonna head to class. Catch you at lunch Marz” then they walked off in the next direction.
Mario shook his head and said “follow me, I’ll take you where you need to be" and started walking towards the double doors at the end of the hall. As we walked across the campus I noticed Mario held his head straight ahead and didn’t speak. As I walked next to him, I tried for a winning smile and said “Well this is a boring tour”, he looked over at me then looked ahead again then said “I’m just showing you to your class, I didn’t think you wanted commentary”. “Seems you don’t know what a tour is then” I responded. He stopped as I continued walking ahead a bit then he said “Do I look like a tour guide?” I smiled and turned back to him “come on man, just help a new kid out.” He started walking towards me again.
“What’s your next class?” I asked him
“Chemistry.”, he responds
“Is it close to here?” I asked
“No, it’s not. I’ll have to walk back.” he responded
“Now, I see why you look like Mr. Sourpuss Mario since you looked at my schedule. I am sorry” I I said
“Whatever man, and you can just call me Marz. That's what everybody else calls me” he responds.
I laughed out loud, “I like Sourpuss Mario more” I said still laughing. “I promise I’ll walk you to your class next time I said”
With a surprised look on his face he responds “You’re the new kid, I don’t need you to show me around. Anyways this is the mech lab, your next class will be Physics which is in the same block as the home room.”
“How will I find my way without you?” I asked, making a pleading face to mock him.
He rolled his eyes and held out his hand, “Give me your phone” He said
I fished my iphone from my pocket, unlocked it and handed it to him. I noticed a quickly hidden questioning face when he saw my background photo but I stayed silent. After a few seconds he handed back and said “There’s my number you can save it and call me if you get lost” I laughed and saved his number as Mario to my phone. “Thank you, oh great guide” I said as I stepped into my classroom. I could hear him muttering as the door closed behind me. As I settled into the class and the teacher had us perform introductions I realized that my thoughts kept drifting to Mario. I shook my head a few times as if to clear my thoughts while the teacher asked a question. “Mr. Spence, that question was for you. Are you with us?” I hear the teacher say. “Sorry, what was that?” I asked as the kid beside me nodded to a kid beside him and said “seems this one is a dreamer” they both laughed. “Man, shut the fuck up, who asked you shit?” I said looking over at him, “Mr. Spence that's 3:30 detention with Mr. Elmswood after school, we do not tolerate that type language at Moreton” the teacher responds. Wow, I thought it’s just detention. At least I wasn’t suspended on the first day so that’s a win.
Mario’s POV
"I'm no tour guide" I yelled but he was already inside and the door closed behind him. Who does he think he is calling me a tour guide? I thought as the door closed behind Theo. Just my luck to be the one saddled with tour duties for the new kid. Not that I minded, he is hot. I started to make my way across the campus as quickly as I could without running. Today is not my day, I thought. I got to our building and quickly walked down the halls to the Chemistry lab. As I pushed the door open I expected to see Ms. Santana from last year but in her place was a tall man who looked like he belonged in a 70s movie.
“And just who might you be, newcomer and why are you late for class?” He asked in what seemed to be a stern tone.
“My name is Marz, I was asked by Mr. Elmswood to show a new student around and he had class on the other side of campus?” I responded while still standing at the door
“Is that the name your parent’s gave you? I do not see Mars on my student register?” the teacher replied
“I am sorry sir, it’s Mario Martin” I said without thinking. He proceeded to check the register.
“Well come on in Mr. Martin, do you have a note of excuse from Mr. Elmswood?” He asked
“No sir, I don’t.” I replied
“As this is your first class, Mr. Martin, consider this a warning. I will not tolerate tardiness or any other form of indiscipline in my class. Is that understood?”
“Yes, sir.” I replied
“Please remove a stool from the back then and settle in” he said
I noticed Carla to the side so I walked to the back, retrieved a stool and went to sit beside her while the teacher picked up the lesson.
“Where’s Chad and Aisha? I asked Carla
“They’ve have literature in this period, we’ll meet up after physics for lunch” she responded
“Oh, I didn’t know they were taking that class” I said as I pulled my notebook and pencils from my backpack
“Yeah, that’s Aisha thing and Chad went along with it” Carla responds as she continues to take her notes. “Why’d it take you so long to get back?”
“It didn’t seem that long to be me” I said
“We’re more than half-way through the period, Marz” she responds with a straight face
I shook my head, I hadn’t realized so much time had passed. Damn you Theo I thought. “Seems I lost track of time” I respond
Raising one eyebrow Carla looked at me and said “lost track of time, eh. How’d it go with the new kid? He seemed nice.”
“Nice!” I said “More like infuriating, can you believe the nerve has to call me his tour guide?”
“Tour guide”, Carla said giggle softly
“It’s not funny” I said my voice becoming a bit louder
“Well maybe if you shared the joke with the rest of us we can be the judge of that Mr. Martin”, the teacher called from the front
“Sorry, sir” I said
“Don’t be sorry, be better. You’ll meet Mr. Elmswood for detention at 3:30 this afternoon” he said
“But I’ve got practice after school” I said
“Unless you’d like to miss practice for the rest of the week, Mr. Martin I’d stop talking. I did warn you earlier.” he responded.
I said nothing more. First day back, I missed breakfast, was almost late, had to walk across campus twice and now I have detention which means I’ll be late for practice and getting lip from coach and not to mention babysitting duties with this Theo kid. It was truly not going well for me today and Theo is a part of the reason. Carla and I spent the next few remaining minutes of class silent while taking notes then the bell rang. We began to pack up our stuff.
“Since you missed the first half of class, I’ll send you a few pics of the notes you missed later” Carla said to me as we finished packing and began to leave the class.
“Thanks, you’re a lifesaver” I smiled at her
As we got into the hallway I felt my phone begin to vibrate, I pulled it from my pocket and realized it was a text from a number that wasn't in my contacts. I opened the text
“Yo Sourpuss. No need to come get me." It read. I locked my phone and pushed it back into my pocket.
Carla and I made our way to the lockers. I opened my locker and pulled out my Physics textbook and notebook, replacing them with the books from my two earlier classes. I walked over to Carla and she looped her hand through mine and we started towards the Physics lab. As we walked my phone went off again, I pulled it out to see a few texts in our group chat.
Ethan: Just landed guys, I’m beat so I’m heading home to get some sleep. Ttyl
Aisha: Glad you’re home safely hun
Aisha: Can’t wait to see you 2maro
Chad: welcome home E-man
I dropped in: Welcome back, Ethan. Rest up bud we’ll see you tomorrow.
Carla: Can’t wait to see you
Chad: Sis, I know you and Marz have Physics together. Aisha and I have a free period so we’re gonna hang out by the pool
Carla: Okay guys
We got to the Physics lab and as I walked in I noticed Theo was already in class and he looked none too happy. I headed to the back and grabbed two stools then went over to a table on the other side from Theo so Carla and I could sit. As we sat down the teacher came in and I was happy to see it was Mr. Lee from last year. Mr. Lee always made class interesting and throughout the class I found myself glancing at Theo at times and a few times he caught me looking and the anger that seemed to be on his face would soften for a second. Class went by quickly and even though it was partially his fault I had detention later I looked around for him at the end of class so I could show him the cafeteria but he was nowhere in sight.
“What’s wrong?” Carla asked looking up at me as we headed for the door
“I don't see Theo.” I said, “I was going to show him to the cafeteria”
“Theo?” She said puzzled then quickly realization donned on her face “Oh, you mean the new guy, thought he said his name is Speng or something like that”
I nodded still looking around as we got into the hallway
“I’m sure he’ll find his way to the cafeteria, it’s not like every kid is heading to and from there during lunch time” Carla said with a shake of her head.
I shook my head and smiled “Whatever Madam Smartypants”
We headed for the cafeteria, as we entered I saw that Chad and Aisha were already at our table from last year. We walked over to them and sat down.
“Sis, I got you an apple pecan salad and for you bro I got a double-cheeseburger with extra fries and a large slushy.” Chad said as he pushed the trays towards us
“Man, how do you always know what to get for me to eat?” I said as I removed the wrapper from the burger and stuffed a few fries in my mouth.
“That’s why I'm your best friend man, come on. What kind of best friend doesn’t know when his best friend is starving?” Chad laughed
“Whatever man, dad probably texted you to remind me to eat like I need a food manager” I said all while stuffing my face
Chad clutched his chest “You wound me man, are you saying I don’t know my best friend's needs? Of course your dad texted me.” He burst out laughing
The others laughed as well.
As we ate the conversation continued from topic to topic and after finishing my burger and fries I got a text.
Good Afternoon Team - This is an advisory to let you know swim practice for Monday has been canceled. We will officially begin tomorrow.
Signed: Coach Ricketts
As I read the text, I sighed.
Aisha looked over at me “what’s up, Marz?” she asked drinking the last of her protein shake
“Oh, nothing. It’s just a text letting us know swim practice was canceled for today.” I said
“And you’re happy about that? You live for swimming.” Aisha said
“Yeah practice is canceled for real.” Chad said, putting his phone back in his pocket.
“Aisha’s right.” Carla said knowingly
I shot her a look willing her to shut up but she just smiled “Well if you must know, I have detention today.”
“Say whhhhaaatttt now? My perfect little Martian has detention.” Aisha responded “How’d that happen?”
“It was that new Chemistry teacher, he doesn’t seem to like me.” I said
“Welllll….” Carla said, smirking “You did come to class late and you were chatting away about how infuriating your new boyfriend is.”
“He’s not my boyfriend and he is infuriating” I respond
“Wait, wait, wait, hold up…bro who’s this new boyfriend of yours and why sis gotta know before me?” Chad chimes in
“Boyyyy be quiet” Aisha said to him then turning to me, “Come on Marz, spill the tea. What’s going on?”
“Y’all know It ain’t nothing like that. Mathias told me to show Theo around so I took him to class, you guys were there when he asked for my help” I said
“Oh, the new kid huh? Didn’t he say his name was Skeng or Speng something like that?” Aisha said looking over at me again “And boy you know damn well you didn’t have to walk all the way to his class and back, you coulda just told him where to go after leaving the main hall.”
“Yeah but what if he got lost, the campus is big?” I retorted
“That wouldn’t a been your problem boo” Aisha said “But you wanted to, I get it he’s hot.”
“Heyyyyyyy” Chad said
“Calm down babe, you know you my only love” she told him and gave him a quick peck on the cheek
“Well Marz was busy telling me how infuriating Speng when the teacher heard him and gave him detention for disruptive conduct” Carla said
“Well bro that’s harsh but since we ain’t got no practice today I can spend the afternoon with my boo” Chad said putting his arm around Aisha
“Well you guys have fun” I said.
As the bell rings I looked around the cafeteria and noticed for the first time that I didn’t see Theo. Maybe he came and left while we were chatting I thought. I grabbed my backpack as the others started getting up.
“We have History now” Carla said
“I have a free period then I guess we meet back in the home room for the last period for the session Mathias told us about.” I said “I’m gonna go hang by the bleachers until then”
“Cool, see you then” Carla said as she looped her arm through Aisha’s and the three of them started to leave. As we made our way to the hall, I headed to the main doors then took a shortcut through one of the gardens then across the field to the bleachers. I found a cool spot, took my air pods from my bag and stuck them in my ear. I skipped through my phone looking for a good song. As I settled on a song, a text popped in from dad.
Hey Kiddo, I’m going to be home a bit late today. I have a few extra things to wrap up at the hospital. Text mom and see if she can pick you up from school.
I sighed as I read the message. Okay dad, I’ll see you at home. I replied to his text.
As the music played, I opened a text to mom.
Hey mom, dad is going to be late today. Are you able to pick me up?
No, I’m busy at the firm until late. Her reply came almost immediately.
Okay, I’ll figure it out. I replied thinking I’d ask just Aisha or the twins to hang with them until Dad is able to pick me up. As I sat listening to the music my mind drifted to my mom and a few memories of when I was small and she would play with me. I shook my head to rid the memory. As I sat listening to my music I opened the group chat.
Marz: Guys, I need to hang with you after detention. Dad said he’ll be late from the hospital and no surprise my mom can’t pick me up.
Chad: If you don’t mind being a third wheel with me and Aisha. We’re going to that new frozen yogurt place on the edge of the projects.
Marz: That sounds like a date and Dad hates it when I go to those neighborhoods.
Aisha: Suite yourself
Marz: What’re you doing Carla?
Carla: I have debate practice and I want to talk to the student council because I want to join so I’ll be here pretty late.
Marz: You guys are all ditching me 😭
Aisha: lol Marz, you so dramatic sometimes
Marz: I’ll have to get an uber then
As I exited the group chat I noticed the chat from who I could only assume was Theo. I had still not responded to the text. “Sourpuss” I thought as I read over the message. How dare he? I locked the phone and slid it in my pocket then slid back in the chair and closed my eyes, getting lost in my music. Twenty minutes went by and I opened my eyes and decided it’s time to head back inside. I slung my backpack over my shoulder and started to walk back. As I entered through the double doors and started towards the home room, I noticed Theo heading for the classroom from the other direction, he still wore an angry scowl on his face. Seems his mood hasn’t improved I thought as I pushed the door and stepped into the classroom and settled into my seat. Seconds later, Theo came in and settled in his seat beside me.
“Do you know why we don’t have Math this period as our schedule says?” I asked Aisha
“I think they brought in someone to lecture us again.” She responded in a depressed tone and a slight smile.
Just then the door opened and Mathias and two people walked in, a woman and a man.
“Good afternoon”, Mathias started, “I’d like to introduce Ms. Walker from Children’s Agency and Sergeant King from the police department. They’re here to talk to you about topics such as safe sex, drug abuse and other topics.”
Ms. Walker walked to the top end of the classroom and handed a box to a kid and told him to take one and pass the box around. She then introduced herself and started her speech about safe sex. I heard a snicker to my left so I looked across to see Theo shaking his head. I turned around and pretended to listen to the speech. The time went by slowly, the police officer took over after a few minutes and he spoke about the increase in violence and drugs coming up from the projects through the Smokez gang. At the mention of the Smokez gang I noticed Theo flinched and adjusted the sleeves of his shirt and blazer which I then noticed seemed to hide a portion of a tattoo on his right arm. Throughout the policeman’s speech I occasionally glanced at Theo to see him texting. The policeman came to the end of his speech by the time the box came to me, I reached in and took out a small package and handed the box to Theo who did the same. I decided to open it after school. After they both finished Mathias thanked them for coming and as they left the bell rang. I sighed as I knew I wasn’t going anywhere as the other kids started to file out.
We’ll catch you later” Chad said as I watched my three friends exit the classroom with the rest of my classmates.
Theo’s POV
I’ve also loved Mechanics but it seems this teacher has a pick for me. He dismissed class ten minutes earlier so we could get to the next class. As I stepped out of the class the kid who was running his mouth came over and said “Sorry man my name is Jake, hope I didn’t offend you in there. I see you’re new to Moreton, hope we can be friends”
“Name’s Speng” I said with a nod of the head as I fished my phone from my pocket
I was still pissed that this kid caused me to get detention.
“I’m heading to the main hall for my next class, do you want a ride? I have go-kart” Jake said
I was surprised to hear that but I wasn’t going to pass up a ride. So I texted Mario
Yo Sourpuss. No need to come get me
“Sure, I’ll ride with you” I told the kid as we walked over to his go kart, I hopped on the back and he got in and started it up then pulled out driving towards the main building.
“I thought the school provided ones were not yet ready” I remarked
“Oh no” he chuckled “they aren’t ready my dad bought this for me”
“Gotcha” I said
We drove in silence the rest of the way. As he parked I hopped off and said
“Thanks man, I’m still pissed at you for getting me detention but this is a good start”
He looked sheepish “No worries man”
I headed for the main hall and Jake pointed me to the Physics lab, I got in and saw most of the students hadn't yet come in. I grabbed a stool and sat towards the back. As the students filed in I saw Mario and the girl from earlier walk in, her arm was laced through his. I was surprised to see that, “were they together?” I wondered. He glanced over at me and my eye caught his for a moment before he looked away then headed to get stools and he and the girl sat on the other side of the room. I felt my anger returning as I turned my head to focus on what the teacher was doing. Physics went by pretty quickly but occasionally I would look across to see Mario was looking at me but each time he quickly averted his eyes. Since the teacher had flung us together I figured I’d sit with Mario at lunch since I didn’t even know where the cafeteria was but I didn’t want to rain on his time with his girl so as class ended I decided against it. I left the lab as the bell rang and headed to the parking lot. I had a chocolate bar in my bag so I sat in my car plugged my ear with my airpods and started listening to some music. Just then I noticed I had a few missed texts. I started opening them to respond and chatted to each as the texts came in.
Rufus: We need to have a chat about expanding our business into Moreton when you get home.
Theo: Man, whatever, we already had this chat.
Next Text:
Ian: Sup bro, u good?
Theo: Yoooo Iron, I’m still pissed at Rufus for doing this but I’m good
Ian: I hear you man but it’s for the best, you know what they 3chains and his boys were up to and why Rufus felt like it's best to move out the projects
Theo: I don’t have to like it man, all my boys and my girl are still in YDP2
Ian: Come on bro we can still get together on weekends and once Rufus gets 3Chains and his boys off his turf you can come through
Theo: 3Chains is just an upstart and if Rufus had listened to me that fool would have been handled already
Ian: Long handled man but you know how stubborn Rufus can be after all he is your old man lol
Theo: I’m nothing like Rufus man
Next Text:
Christal: Babe, can’t wait to see you later (accompanied by a pic of her boobs)
Theo: Damn girl, good thing I’m not in a crowd. Can’t wait to see you too. Been to fucking long
Christal: 👿just a little longer boo. What time are you picking me up?
Theo: Shit I got detention until 4:30 so after that but you gotta meet me at the gate to Moreton heights. Rufus doesn’t want me going down to YDP2 for now.
Christal: Okay babe, should I just uber to your place to make it easier?
Theo: Even better. The address is 34 Queen’s Ln
Christal: Okay babe, I’ll call you when I get there.
As I sent the last text I realized the lunch hour was finished and I was well into my free period. I grabbed my backpack and headed across the parking lot onto the field then to the bleachers. A few kids were off to one side chatting and I noticed a section that was well shaded and seemingly empty. I quickly walked towards it when I noticed there was a kid in the corner who seemed to be asleep. As I got closer I could see that it was Mario, his airpods plugged in his ear and he seemed so peaceful asleep. I decided not to wake him and grabbed my phone, snapped a quick photo then headed in the other direction. I got to a small garden at the back with a map of the campus. I stood there looking at it and realized there was a quick way to my home room from here. With just a few minutes to the next period. I removed my airpods, stuck them in their case and made my way through the back to get to the home room. As I walked I noticed Mario approaching the home room from the other direction. At the same time I thought how funny it would be to see the look on his face when I showed him the pic I took. I smiled as he entered the classroom. A few seconds I entered and made my way to my seat beside him. As it turned out this session was going to be a waste of time, since they brought some woman from child’s services and a cop to give us a lecture.
The woman started by introducing herself again and told us she’ll be talking about safe sex. I snickered as I thought “Well i’ve been fucking for years” I noticed Mario looking over when he heard my reaction. The woman handed a box to a kid with instructions to take one and send the box around while she continued her prattle about using condoms. She eventually shut up but the cop took over, his prattle was worse at the mention of the Smokez, I realized that parts of my tattoo which would definitely link me to the Smokez on my right arm were exposed. I quickly unrolled my shirt and blazer sleeves. Mario was chatting with his friends but when I flinched he looked over at me. I paid him no attention but pulled out my phone and shot a text to Rufus.
Yo Rufus, there’s a cop in my class talking about the Smokez. WTF is going on man?
As expected no response. I looked over to see Mario handing me the box the woman had asked to be passed around, I took it, reached in and pulled out the same packet. And sent the box up the line. The bell rang shortly after, this lecture was over which meant it was time for detention. I sat and watched the other leave as Mario and his friends said goodbye. I was shocked to see him staying behind. As the door closed behind the last student, Mathias said “Okay, you two since it's the first day. If you behave I’ll let you off early but no phones. You may talk to each other if you choose.”
“So Sourpuss has detention too”, I chuckled looking over at him.
The look on his face when he turned and saw me was absolutely priceless.
“It’s all your fault” he muttered angrily.
“My fault” I whispered in an incredulous tone with a wicked smile on my face “What did I do?”
“Well for one you made me late for Chemistry and the new teacher isn’t very nice so he gave me detention” he responded rolling his eyes at me.
I chuckled softly “It’s not my fault you’re a terrible tour guide Sourpuss”
“Don’t call me that” he said angrily
“What, you don’t like it, Sourpuss?” I asked laughing I was a bit surprised how quickly my mood changed
“I don’t” he said flatly giving me a blank look “And you haven’t been a ray of sunshine since I saw you in Physics class, walking around with that scowl on your face”
“So someone was watching me eh?” I said with feigned innocence
“I wasn’t watching you”, he said “Just saying what I saw. Anyways, why are you in detention?”
The chair at the front shift, we looked over to see Mathias stand and walk to the door.
“I’ll be back gentlemen and no funny business.” He said stepping through the door
“Funny business?” I said “Does he think I’m gonna seduce you?”
The look on his face was even funnier that before
“What?” He said softly
“I’m just kidding Sourpuss, lighten up” I laughed
His face physically relaxed
I continued “Anyways some fool kid in Mech Tech caused me to get detention.”
He pulled out his phone to send a text, it seems. Shortly after I heard him sigh deeply.
“What’s going on?” I asked
“Not that it’s your business but I’m gonna have to uber home” he responded
“Well you live across the street from me so you could just ride with me” I offered.
His face brightened somewhat “Okay, thanks. I think I'll ride with you then.” Then his face darkened “Wait, how do you know where I live?” He asked
I smiled, “That’s my secret now, isn’t it?
I heard the door open and Mathias walked in. “You guys can go, but please do not make this a second in the future.”
I grabbed my backpack and we headed for the door.
“Don’t you need to say goodbye to your girlfriend?” I asked
“My girlfriend?” He asked quizzically
“The girl that was on your arm today, Carla, I think her name was.” I said
He laughed lightly as he walked towards the main doors to leave
“She’s my best friend’s twin and one of my closest friends, not my girlfriend.” He said emphasizing the word girlfriend.
I laughed lightly, “Oh, my mistake.” An unexpected sense of relief filled me.
He looked at me coyly then said “Seems someone was watching me.”
My face flushed “I wasn’t watching you, just saying what I saw” I said repeating his line.
“Touche” he said
We got to my car and he stopped dead in his tracks
“This is your car?” he asked as I unlocked the car
“Well I have the keys.” I said sarcastically “Why do you ask?”
“You’re the kid that moved into the house across the road, I saw this car this morning” he said as realization dawned on his face. “That’s how you know where I live.” He said finally putting the pieces together.
I laughed, “I saw you leaving this morning.” I said as we got into the car.
“So what do you wanna do, Sourpuss?” I asked
“What do you mean? I thought you were going home” he said.
“Don’t be boring, Sourpuss, it’s still early”. I said.
“It’s up to you since you’re the driver.” He said.
“Okay, you’re on mister.” I said
It was 4:10 when Theo drove out of the school and headed towards the town center.
Mario’s POV
This evening had taken a turn I did not expect. I was feeling very nervous especially after what Theo had said in detention about seducing me. What’s going on?The drive into town went by quickly as I raked over the events of the evening so far in my mind. He pulled into the liquor store and hopped out of the car.
“You coming, Sourpuss?” He asked
“My name is Marz, Theo.” I said as I got out of the car. “You’re going to the liquor store?”
“Yes, what’s wrong?” He replied
“I’m not going in there, they won’t sell liquor to minors” I replied
He laughed “Have a little faith Sourpuss, now let’s go” he said as he took off walking to the door. I followed him reluctantly. He held the food open and I entered the store. He walked into the aisle, picked up two bottles then went to the fridge and grabbed a six pack and a few sodas. I was still puzzled as to how he was going to pay for these seeing as those we’re still in school. When we got to check out the cashier ran the items and asked for his ID, as he pulled out his card I noticed he handed her his driver’s license as well. The cashier checked us out and handed back his card and driver’s license. I grabbed one of the bags and as we headed for the door feeling like an idiot I asked
“How old are you?
He laughed, “How old do you think I am?” He said “Gotta be some young age since you thought I couldn’t buy my own liquor”
“You’re 18” I said in a questioning tone
“You’re asking or telling?” He continued to laugh. He was finding this too amusing
“Telling.” I said
“If you say so Sourpuss” he laughed as we hopped into the car.
He plugged his phone to his car stereo and started playing some music which was surprisingly good as he drove in the direction of the Moreton reserve overlooking the whole town of Moreton Heights. The drive to the top of the hill took roughly 20 minutes when he parked with the car facing the town itself. We got out and he hopped up on the hood of the car and sat down then took a beer from the six pack, I hopped up on the other side but grabbed a soda. Why is he doing this? I wondered.
“Great view, huh?” He said looking out at the town sprawling below
“Yeah, it’s beautiful” I said not really saying much
“Yeah, I like it here. It’s very quiet and calming.” He said looking over at me. I guess he caught a look on my face as he drained the contents of the beer and opened another.
“What’s wrong?” He asked
I gathered my confidence and said “I guess I am a little confused as to why you brought me here, there are so many other things we could have done in town”.
“It’s the only place I know since moving here, so it's where I escape to think” he replied sheepishly
“Okay” I said as I grabbed one of the beers from the pack. I noticed he was almost halfway through his second. We sat in silence for a while, watching the sun fade over the skyline and the city lights gradually turning on. He was now on his fourth beer while I was just on my second.
“Take it easy man, remember you gotta drive us home” I said
“Don’t be a killjoy, Sourpuss.” He said “Can’t you drive us home?”
“No.” I said, “I took lessons but never applied for my license.”
“So you can drive but you have no paperwork?” He said giggling
“Yes”, I said, coming to the realization that he’s had too much already.
“I got my license last year.” he said.
I took the beer bottle and handed him a bottle of water hoping to sober him up.
“Why’d you move to Moreton Heights?” I asked hoping to keep him talking so he could sober up
“Well my idiot dad thinks this is the best option for me at the moment since we couldn’t continue living in the projects” He said
“The projects?” I said a little surprise, twinging my voice.
“What? Can’t believe someone from the projects could live in your bougie neighborhood?” He asked
“No, no, it’s, it’s not that.” I stuttered out “It’s just that I have never been to the projects except just driving through to somewhere else.”
He laughed, “Don’t get your panties in a bunch Sourpuss, it ain’t that serious.” I shook my head at him.
“So since your dad is an idiot as you say, what about your mom? I asked
“She…um..umm” he said then he went quiet. I looked over and I could tell that I pushed the wrong button with that question.
“It’s okay, you don’t have to answer that.” I said
He looked over and I could tell he was really shaken but he said “This Friday will mark one year of her passing”
“I’m so sorry to hear, and I’m sorry for prying” I said
He took that and said “No need, you couldn’t have known”
We chatted a bit longer and I noticed it got pretty dark then my phone started ringing. I took it from my pocket, it was dad. Oh shit I thought, I hadn’t told him I’d be late.
Mario: Hey Dad
Christophe: Where are you kiddo, I just got home and mom said she didn’t pick you up?
Mario: I should have called, I’ll be home soon, I am hanging out with a friend.
Christophe: Okay, son. Please call next time, you know how worried I get.
Mario: Sorry, Dad. I didn’t mean to worry you. I’ll call next time.
Dad hung up. Theo turned to me “ I guess it’s time to go”
I nodded, “Yes, it seems so, my dad gets stressed in situations when I don’t communicate with him.
“Okay, hop in so I can take you home princess” He said
Ignoring his princess comment I said “Are you okay to drive?”
“Yeah, don’t worry.” he said as he hopped in the driver’s seat.
I climbed in shotgun and as I did he was checking his phone “Oh fuck” I heard him say
“Is everything okay?” I asked
“Well I was supposed to meet my girl after school but i forgot and now she’s pissed as fuck” He responded
“You have a girlfriend?” I asked with a look of what was have been shock on my face.
“Don’t look so surprised, of course I do.” he responded
I didn’t respond as he backed up then drove onto the road. As we drove home, I began to wonder if I read the signs wrong because I sure as hell felt like he was flirting at times but now he casually tells me he had a girlfriend waiting on him all this time. I didn’t know what to think anymore. This evening almost felt like a date so I was truly confused. We pulled onto our street and he stopped at my driveway, I grabbed my backpack from the back seat and began to open the door.
“What, no good night kiss?” he said with a wide grin I nodded my head and mumbled good night as I walked away from the car. As I fished around in my bag for my house keys, he drove off then backed into his driveway then I saw what appeared to be a girl approaching his car and she was shouting. I quickly opened the door and slipped inside.
Note: I still have many thoughts on where this could go but for now, I would appreciate any constructive feedback.
