Page 10 - My Home on the Earth

wait here.’ When Cara returned, they hurried through the gates. Elise didn’t stop talking as they crossed the road to stop the first shuttle bus that came along.
‘Two girls in my class ducked under their table when the bang went off. Our windows rattled and then some people screamed. Lisa Jones was still crying in the playing field. What do you think happened?’
‘I’m not sure. Simon thinks it was a gas explosion,’ replied Cara. ‘Who were you with when the bang went off?’
‘Mouse,’ smiled Elise. ‘I like him. He reminds me of my dad.’
‘Mr Fieldhouse to you, young lady,’ said Cara with a po-faced expression.
‘Loads of kids can’t go home because their parents are at work. How are we getting home?’ asked Elise as she sat down on the bus.
‘Don’t worry. Grandma is coming. I’ve arranged to meet her at Annetta’s. If I was sure our school was going to be closed for another two days I’d have my nails done. I doubt Miss Killjoy would approve if I nudged past her in the morning with starry-night nails.’
Elise giggled. Cara had attended the Academy since pre-school when it was the Quay Road Primary School. Elise’s transition from her village primary to Year 7 at the academy was easier with Cara there to watch over her. A new uniform, timetables, rules, and regulations she could cope with but not the wretched bell routine.
Initially surprising, then irritating, and then utter
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