Follow the Crowd

Home is initially the same route as the crowd of boys is taking. You can see them ahead, regaining their confidence the further from the school they get. Initially in limpid silence, they rediscover the joshing and the laughter that you remember from your youth.

When you should turn off, you don’t. You follow them, all the way into the centre of town, where the group finally splinter. The core trio, including the one who had dared to answer Blair, head to the local coffee shop.

You follow them.

Why? Curiosity.

As they queue up, you stand behind them. They notice you there. Their reaction tells you they know who you are. Quick, furtive glances you try and ignore. Stumbling over their order when asked. Whispering among themselves. When they receive their drinks, they huddle around a table and watch as you order.

A small cappuccino to takeaway. You don’t want much. You only came in on impulse. But having got your drink, you’re not ready to leave. Instead, you head to the boys and their table. You’re not as intimidating as Blair. You’re not as tall. You’re not as imposing. And most of all, you’re not female with large breasts. Yet their eyes widen with trepidation as you approach.

“You wanted to talk to Anny Runnel,” you tell them. The main one nods. “Can I ask why?”

He stumbles over his words. “I just… you know… I just wanted to give her this.” He pulls from his bag an envelope. “Nothing untoward. We meant no trouble. It’s just a birthday card. For her birthday tomorrow.”

It’s Anny’s birthday tomorrow. Something you didn’t know. That would make her 18 tomorrow. A useful piece of information.

“Do you want me to give it to her?”

The boy is caught in indecision. “Um… no, it’s OK. We’re going to her party on Saturday. It’s just she’ll get lots of cards then. I thought…”

“You thought it’d be more memorable if you gave her card before the party.”

He nods. “I might take it to her place. I know where she lives.”

Alright. You nod your acceptance. Then you lean in conspiratorially. “Don’t let Miss Speed intimidate you. She’s not as scary as she looks.”

You turn and leave the three boys with their coffee and muffins. And head back home.