Page 90 - My Home on the Earth

‘Ha! But does he realise she’s married to a policeman?’ grinned Cara.
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A new term began at Rauston Academy. Cara and Elise returned to the humdrum of lessons, homework, sports and after-school activities. For Kay or Alice, the daily school run was far from relaxing as their eyes scanned every road, garden and pathway. Cara did her utmost to be chatty and casual towards Elise until the day she said: ‘Isn’t it strange, Cara? We haven’t seen the boy for ages.’
As quick as lightning, Alice snapped: ‘What boy is that?’
‘Don’t sound so innocent, Grandma. The one you’ve all been talking about. I’m not deaf, and remember, I can lip- read. When I stopped talking, I couldn’t join in with the conversations others kids were having around me. I watched my friend’s lips moving and in time, understood what she was saying. Anyone can do it. I watched my dad talking to Uncle Pete about a boy who is following us. They’re worried about our safety and I’ve no idea why.’
For once, Cara and Alice were stuck for words until Cara uttered: ‘Have you seen him, then?’
‘Yes! Have you?’
Cara felt uncertain and wondered if Elise was playing with her. She knew her cousin to be a mischievous minx with words but not with serious matters. Alice pulled up to let them out and was about to open her mouth when Elise gave her a quizzical smile. ‘Bye, Grandma. Be good.’
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