(Year 10)

3rd   September (Tuesday)

She sat admiring the sites by the river, the leaves holding their ground till fall which

wouldn’t be far away now. It was a rather fresh morning, so cool in the brisk September air.

Her hair hung over her pierced face and bright red hair. Her new school head disapproved of her many piercings, but they weren’t going anywhere for no one no matter how hard they insisted upon it.  She smoked through the disapproval from her mother.

She had many skeletons to hide, would a new high school make more?

She had been booked in to see the school shrink two days a week to explore her background and her school life.  She’d rather move to the quiet countryside, she’d rather be dead right now than there.

‘Autumn school in five.’

‘Yes mom.’

She doubted out her cigarette pulling herself up, lucky for her her mother drove or she’d be really late for her first day and get detention. Though she clearly had no interest in starting her new high school not ever, yet she had no choice over it she had to finish high school. She opened the car door sliding in closing the door fastening her seat belt. Her head hung low. The eldish lady started the engine changing gear pulling away. ‘I’m sorry for all of this Autumn, but we needed a new beginning.’

She looked through her fringe at her mother into her rimmed glasses, replying.  ‘Why, so I wouldn’t be next?’

’Look Autumn it’s not your fault.’

’So why does it feel that way?’

’Please Autumn it was hard for me too.’

‘You really think this place will be any different?’

’Yes I do.’

‘I hope for all our sakes you’re right.’

Autumn’s mother pulled up outside the high school.  ‘I’ll pick you up.’

‘I’ll walk I need the air.’

‘Sure.’

Autumn opened the door getting out of the car.  ‘I’ll see you later Autumn.’

‘Sure mom.’

She closed the door, looking at the small building a lot smaller than the high school she had come from.  An eldish lady walked up to her, straight faced.  ‘Miss Cleveland.  Mr.  Greyson will be seeing you this morning.’

She looked at her new principle.  ‘Sure.’

‘I’ll show you to his office.  Don’t screw this one up Miss. Cleveland you won’t be getting another chance.’

‘I won’t.’

‘And I prefer if you don’t wear jewellery to school.’

The head mistress escorted Autumn to a small office with a gold plaque with “Mr. Greyson School Psychiatrist” written upon it.  ‘Right here we are.  I’d like it if the piercings are gone by our next meeting.’

‘Sure what ever!’

She knocked the door.  ‘Mr. Grayson. Miss.  Cleveland to see you.’

‘Send her in.’

The head mistress opened the door.  ‘Go in and remember he’s there to help.’

Autumn smiled vaguely she didn’t speak to her mother why should she talk to a total stranger about how she was feeling right now. She stepped into the regular sized office.  ‘Will you shut the door and take a seat.’  The scruffy male with piercings said.  She closed the door this was going to be so easy, a fucking breeze even. She walked over sitting down.  He looked at her. ‘So how are we this morning?’

She looked at him weird.  ‘Okay I guess.’

‘So what would you like to talk about?’

She pulled a confused expression hadn’t this guy got her notes? Was this guy for real?

‘I take it you didn’t want to come here?’

‘No I didn’t.  I had no choice.’

‘Why not?’

‘Like I said I had no choice.’

‘What’s wrong Autumn? I can call you Autumn  can’t I?’

‘I guess.’

‘So what’s eating you this morning?’

‘Miss sour face said I had to get rid of my piercings, none of my old teachers cared.’

He placed his hand on hers nerving her. ‘You should be yourself that’s what makes you, you.’

Why did this guy make so much sense?

‘So Autumn why did you come here?’

‘Stuff.’

‘Must be some pretty heavy stuff to have to resort to a shrink.’

‘Mom thought it would be a good idea to get things off my chest.’

‘But, we’re having a hard time doing that why?’

‘It’s just so hard to.’

‘Just think of me as your friend.’

‘So you can die on me to?’  She snapped slipping up.

‘Now we’re getting somewhere.’

‘I...I..’

‘I’m here to help.’

‘You’re like nineteen how can you possibly help?’

‘Try me.’

‘I can’t.’

‘What are you so scared of Autumn?’

‘I don’t want you to die!’  she cried.

‘I aint going anywhere.  I’ll help you through this, I promise.’

‘How? My friends are dead! And I’m here to forget, how am I supposed to forget?’

‘You haven’t got to. You just need to find a way to carry on and keep it in here.’  He said tapping her chest.

She looked at him, his eyes sparkled. Why did this guy connect with her?

He edged forward.  Another male walked in the room, maybe in his early forties, dyed black hair, distinguished designer glasses , wearing a suit maybe pinstripe.  ‘So how are we getting on Mathew?’

‘Good.’

‘Remember what I said.  You’re here to help not harass.’

‘Yes sir.’

He looked at Autumn who had now sunk into herself.  ‘You must be Miss. Cleveland.’

‘Yeah.’

‘I’m Mr. Grayson.’

‘Oh, but I thought.’

‘Didn’t Mathew tell you?’

‘No.  I didn’t get no name.’

He looked at Mathew disappointing.  ‘What did I tell you Mathew?’

‘I’m sorry Sir I forgot.’

‘Introductions first.’

Mathew looked at Autumn.  ‘I’m Mathew Harding, you’re quiet close with my age.  I’m in my third year psychology degree at university.  I’m here to learn and gain experience as a psychiatrist .   Mr. Greyson left me in charge of your case study, he thought a younger face might help to crack the ice.’

‘Oh.’

‘I can take over if you prefer me too.’

‘I..’

‘My lecturer will be observing me with you and a few other students for my course. If that is cool with you?’

‘I guess.’

He smiled.

‘I’m sorry Miss Cleveland, but times up you have English and you can’t be late.’

‘Sure.’  He looked at Autumn.  ‘Well I’ll see you Thursday.’

She smiled politely pulling herself up.

‘I’ll show you to the class.’

‘Okay.’

‘Remember what I said Mathew introduction first.’

‘I will.’

They walked out of the office Mr. Greyson closing the door.  ‘This way.’  He said veering his arm to the right, Autumn followed him down the long winding corridor.  ‘I’m  sorry Miss. Cleveland I should’ve told Miss. Strum Mathew was taking you.’

‘That’s okay.’

‘He’s a nice lad, he’ll go far if he puts his head into it and listens.’

She smiled he made a lot of sense to her.

‘Well here we are.’

She smiled.

‘I’ll see you Thursday.’

‘Okay.’

He opened the door looking at the oddly styled lady in her mid-thirties.  ‘Miss. Shan, Miss.  Cleveland.’

‘Come in.’

She looked at Mr Greyson for re-assurance.  ‘Go on go in, and we’ll talk Thursday .’

She smiled walking into the half full room as the door closed.

‘Take a seat.’

She walked to the back of the room, many of the students cutting their eyes at her as she walked passed finding an empty seat at the back.  ‘Right I see Mr. Harborne is still not with us so I’ll begin.’

Mr. Greyson walked back into the office closing the door looking directly at Mathew.  ‘I’ll take over from you on  Thursday with Miss. Cleveland.’

‘Why?’

‘I saw you.  I said no closeness.’

‘There won’t be I promise.’

‘I can’t take that chance.’

‘Please.  We have a connection; I promise she’ll open up to me.  I need this for my final report. She’s so different than the others I can connect and get her to talk.’

‘Fine.’  He sighed.  ‘But, no more Mathew.’

‘I won’t I promise.’

Autumn walked out of the class room after her English lesson had finished.  ‘I see you didn’t take my advice.’

She looked up straight at Miss. Strum.

‘Well!’

‘I was told to be myself.’

‘Who by?’

‘My shrink.’

‘Mr. Greyson! Impossible!’

‘No Mathew Harding.’

Her eyeballs gauged.  ‘Excuse me.’

‘Mathew Harding.’

‘Right.’  She snapped.  ‘I’ll see you tomorrow and no piercings.’

‘Sure.’

The head mistress stormed angrily away.

‘Well it looks like you pissed her right off.’

She turned a sandy haired boy stood face to face with her wearing the same ridiculous uniform as her. ‘Yeah.’

‘Ignore her we all do.’

She looked at him to say “Who the hell are you?”

‘Connor, Connor Harborne.’

‘So you finally show your face  after bunking off?’

‘I did.’

‘Is that wise?  You’ll have your balls strong up.’

He laughed.  ‘I like you.’

‘Autumn.’

‘Well, Autumn how’s about we do lunch and we can hang?’

‘Are you digging on me?’

‘Maybe, guess you’ll never know unless you hang with me.’

‘Fine.’  She sighed.

‘Cool.’ He said placing his arm over her shoulders.

She looked at him.

‘Wha!’

‘Nothing.’

‘Come on lunch waits for no one.’

They walked down the corridor.

Mr. Greyson opened his office door to an angry Miss Strum.  ‘Mr. Grayson.’

‘Miss Strum how can I help you?’

‘A word.’

‘Sure.’

‘Mr. Harding.’

‘What about him?

‘Why is he taking Miss. Cleveland?’

‘I thought it would be good experience.’

‘No more.’

‘Why?’

‘We all know his background.’

‘He’s promised.’

‘Promises count for nothing in this world.’

‘He’s a good kid give him a chance.  He can get through to her, they connect.’

‘Fine.’  She sighed defeated.  ‘But, if he screws up.’

‘He won’t.’

‘Make sure he doesn’t.’ She said storming off.

Autumn  and Connor sat down after choosing their lunch  a pork roast which looked barely cooked, his friends sat opposite them all shaggy haired and pierced.  ‘Guys this is Autumn, Autumn these  are my bros Ashby, Jae, and Harry.’

She smiled.

‘Hay.’

‘I said Autumn could hang with us, she’s just joined us and needs to get in with it.’

‘What you desperate?’

‘No.  I can do this dump on my own.’

‘Gee girl your stroppy. You on a home game?’

‘No, and wouldn’t you be if you had to up and leave to come to this dump?’

‘Hay this is our dump and it aint that bad for your info.’

‘Sorry!’  She said sarcastically.

‘Just ease up on her guys okay, first days are tough we’ve all been there. Make her feel welcome.’

‘Sure my apologies.’

‘Mine too.  Just every time I have friends I seem to lose them.’

‘You won’t lose us, will she guys?’  Connor said looking at his friends for reassurance.

‘Nope, unless we die or something.’

She looked at them her completion paled, her eyes glazed.

‘You okay Autumn?’

Her eyes retracted she looked at Connor.  ‘Yeah fine.’

‘You sure you seemed a little phased out for a while there.’

‘Yeah I’m fine.’

They ate their lunch in silence not to upset the new girl.

‘Come on guys let’s have a smoke before lunch is over.’

They all pulled themselves up.  ‘You coming Autumn?’

‘Yeah sure.’

She pulled herself up, Connor placed his arm round her as they walked out of the dinner hall.  Mathew walked into the dinner hall staring angrily as she caught his eye in Connor’s company.

‘So do you smoke?’

‘Yeah.’

‘Here.’  He said passing her a cigarette.

‘Thanks.’ She said taking it off him.

He lit the cigarettes.   They blew the smoke out.

‘So where do you come from Autumn?’

‘The city.’

‘Mmh, must’ve been a big leap coming somewhere so quiet.’

‘Yeah.’

‘So why did you leave the city?’

She looked at them her expression changed.

‘Okay bad subject.’

The bell rang.

‘Great lunch is over.  You coming Autumn?’

‘Where to?’

‘Lesson of course.  Geo right?’

‘Yeah.’

‘Come on then.’  He said grabbing her hand pulling her away.

‘I take it you only don’t do English?’

‘Don’t like the teacher.’

They walked across the meeting ground going into the building up the stairs to their next lesson.  He sat next to her with his arm Strawn across the back of her seat.  ‘We’ll take a look at your time table and sort something out okay.’

She smiled.

They walked out of the class together at the end of the day.  ‘Mr. Harborne!’

‘Shit.’  He looked at Autumn.  ‘I’ll see you tomorrow.’

She smiled.

‘He’s in shit.’

‘She always cop him?’

‘Nine times out of ten.  We’ll walk with you.’

‘Are you sure?’

‘Yeah sure.’

They all walked out of the high school laughing and joking. Autumn trying to join in but finding it hard to.  ‘I’ll see you guys tomorrow.’

‘You live by the river?’

‘Close.’

‘You’re lucky.’

‘I guess.’

‘We’ll see you tomoz.’

‘Okay.’

‘Bye Autumn.’

‘Bye guys.’

They all parted company going their separate ways.

4th   September

Connor met Autumn by the bridge. ‘So how are we ready to go?’

‘Yeah.’

He placed his arm around her as they walked away.

‘Hey Con, Autumn.’

‘Guys.’

They walked over to them.  ‘On time.  I’m impressed Con get you out of bed?’

‘No my mom.’

‘Ooh that told you Jay.’

Connor laughed.

‘Come on let’s go.’

They walked into school as the bell rang. They went into registration.

‘I’ll see you in an hour okay.’

‘Okay.’

Connor kissed her check.  ‘Bye Autumn.’

‘Con.’

He walked away.  Autumn went into her first lesson sitting down.  The Latino boy looked at her and smiled.  She shot a short smile back.

‘Right class I’d like you to pair for the next few weeks. So, Jarrod I’d like you to pair with the new student Miss. Cleveland.’

Sure sir.’

Stenton sunk into his chair why couldn’t he have paired them?

‘Hi I’m Jarrod.’

‘Autumn.’

He smiled.

The bell rang after lesson and they walked out of the class room.  ‘It was good working with you Autumn.  You’re clever for a chick.’

She looked at him.

‘No offence.’

‘None taken.’

‘Just most girls around here are dumb and prefer to look pretty and are never off their mobiles, thinking of themselves. Not you.’

‘I prefer to get good grades.’

He smiled.

‘I have to get going.’

‘I’ll see you next lesson.’

‘You will. Later Autumn.’

‘Later Jarrod.’

He smiled as she walked away had he finally met a girl with the same intelligence as him?

She walked into her next lesson sitting next to Ash.  ‘So how did your first science lesson go?’

‘Good.  I met Jarrod.’

‘Oh.’

‘What’s that supposed to mean?’

‘He’s a loner Autumn he ain’t got many friends he’s a square.’

‘I like him.’

‘Keep that to yourself.’

Autumn hadn’t seen Connor this morning.  Maybe, he was in different classes to her.

She walked down the corridor and out the double doors walking down to the smoking area where she lit a cigarette.  ‘There you are.’

She choked, looking at him.  ‘Connor.’

‘Where you been? I’ve been looking all over for you.’

‘In lesson.’

‘Must’ve missed you.’  He said walking over to her taking the cigarette off her taking the last few drags,  blowing it out,  doubting it out with his foot.  ‘I’m sorry about yesterday.’

‘What happened?’

‘Detention, bitch.’

‘Shouldn’t wag.’

‘Maybe you should join me.’

‘I don’t think so.’

‘Why not? It’ll be fun.’

‘Your fun aint mine.’

‘How do you know?’

‘I just do.’

He edged closer.  She stood nervously. ‘Why are you so nervous?  We’re friends aren’t  we?’

‘I guess.’

‘Good.’

He pressed his lips on hers kissing her, she foolishly returned his kiss,  he slipped his tongue in kissing her harder and harder, tears slipped down her check.  He moved away looking at her concerned.  ‘What’s wrong?’

‘I…I’

‘Why are you crying Autumn, it weren’t that bad was it?’

‘No, it’s not that.’

‘So, what is it then?’

‘I.. I  don’t want you to die.’

‘I won’t.  I aint going anywhere, I aint going to die.  Not today anyway!’  He cracked

She looked unimpressed.  ‘I’m sorry I can’t.’ She turned walking briskly away, tears rolling down her face.

‘What’s wrong Autumn?

She turned looking dead at him.  ‘You wouldn’t understand.’

‘Talk to me then.’

‘I have a shrink for that, a good one.  Mathew Harding.’

‘Harding! You are joking right?’

‘No.’

‘He’s a prick Autumn.  He’ll just listen to get inside you.’

‘And you won’t?’

‘No.  I’m your friend.  I’d like more, but I clearly aint goanna get it.’

‘I can’t.’

‘Why?’

‘I can’t take that chance again.’

‘What happened at your old school?  And don’t say **** all, cause clearly a heap of shit did.’

‘I can’t it hurts too much.’

‘You talk to him.’

‘It’s his job, not yours.’

‘I’m your friend you can talk to me.’

‘Maybe one day.’

‘Why not now?’

‘I can’t.’  She cried.

He pulled her close, placing his arms around her comforting her. ‘I’m here for you okay.  Any time you need to talk I’m here.’

She cried onto his shirt, she couldn’t deal with anything heavy right now. He moved away looking at her.  ‘It’ll be okay Autumn.’

‘It will never be okay.’

‘I really like you, take all the time you need okay.’

She smiled briefly.

‘Come on we’ve got an hour to kill before lunch we’ll take a look at that time table of yours.

‘Okay.’

His arm draped over her shoulder as they walked up the playing field sitting down. They looked through her time table till lunch.  ‘Right, so we’re all settled we’ve only got a few lessons without each other.  Do you think you can handle that?’

‘Yeah.’

He leaned forward.  ‘We can hang after school and weekends, if you like?’

‘That would be nice.’

‘Cool.’  He pressed his lips on hers kissing her.  He moved away.  ‘Come on lets grab us a bite to eat.  I’m starving.’

They pulled themselves up, he draped his arm over her shoulders and they walked into the school and the cafeteria to choose barley cooked jacket potatoes and dressing, choosing their drinks.  ‘Hey over here.’

Connor looked over Ashby calling him over to join them.  ‘Come on Autumn.’

They walked over to the table where his friends were sitting placing their treys down, sitting next to one another. ‘So today better than yesterday?’

‘I guess.’

‘Where were you at break Autumn?  Connor thought you’d forgot the way!’

‘No.  Mr. Conway wanted a word with me about the course work we’d be doing.’

‘So you’ll be stuck in all weekend hugh?!’

‘No,  he gave me a few weeks to get it done.’

‘Gee he’s being nice must’ve got his end away.’

‘Guys.’

‘We’ll he’s a slave driver.’

‘That’s what I was told.’

‘It’s all true babe, we had him last year he worked us into the ground.’

‘Ignore them Autumn he’s okay.’

‘Is he the reason you didn’t take Art up?’

‘No, it’s not our scene. Is it guys?’

‘Nope.’  They all chimed.

‘Then what is?’

‘Stuff that’s interesting.’

‘Art can be interesting.’

‘Yeah right. Doubt it.  Art museums, yarn.’

‘You guys have no imagination.’

‘We have plenty .’

‘Come on let’s have a fag before lunch is over.’

‘Autumn already has.’

‘To make up for the one that you missed at break?’

‘Yeah.’

‘Come on let’s get out of here.’

They pulled themselves up going outside.  ‘So Con catch up with you when you were having a fag?’

‘Yeah.’

‘Took your time?’

‘We were talking.’

‘What about?’

‘Personal.’

‘So you don’t want to talk about it?’

‘That’s what personal means Ash you nonce.’

They lit their cigarettes smoking till the bell went for the end of lunch.  ‘We’ll meet up in the usual place.’

‘Sure.’

‘Later Autumn.’

‘Later.’

Connor and Autumn walked down the corridor.  ‘Thanks for not making me look like an idiot.’

‘I’d never do that.’

‘Well thanks for not telling them.’

‘You didn’t tell me nothing.  There wasn’t nought to tell Autumn, even if you had it would’ve been between us okay.’

‘Okay.’

He kissed her softly on the cheek.  ‘I’ll see you later okay.’

‘Okay.’

The bell rang and they went outside for break meeting the other for a cigarette.

‘So how’s today been Autumn? You finding your feet.’

‘I guess.’

‘You will. Just give it a few weeks and you won’t even need your timetable you’ll know every lesson you’ve got and where.’

The bell rang and they doubted their cigarettes out going into their next lesson before lunch.

Autumn and Connor sat down.  ‘So who’s in your science lesson?’

‘A guy named Jarrod. Well that’s who the tutor paired me with.’

‘Really.’

‘Yeah.’

‘He’s a bit of a loner Autumn just watch yourself okay he’ll latch onto you.’

‘I will.’

‘Have you met Stenton yet? I swore he was in that class.’

‘No not yet.’

‘Oh.’

‘Why is he someone else I should stay clear of?’

‘Right class settle down.’

‘Just say he’s a giggalo.’

The bell rang. ‘So what have you got next babe?’

‘Geo.’

‘I’ll walk with you.’

‘Okay.’

‘Hey guys where are you heading?’

‘Autumn has Geo. I have history.’

‘Can I tag I’m going that way.’

‘Sure.’

Harry walked down the corridor with Connor and Autumn.

‘So what room you in Autumn?’

‘Ten.’

‘Me to you can sit next to me.’

‘Sure.’

‘Well this is us Con we’ll see you at lunch.’

’You will.’  He kissed Autumn on the cheek. ‘Lunch babe.’

‘Okay.’

He walked away as Harry and Autumn walked into their geography lesson sitting down.  ‘So did you met anyone new in class.’

‘Apart from Jarrod. No.’

‘Surprising guys usually drewl over s new face, a pretty face. Stenton’s usually the first.’

‘Conor mentioned him.  Who is he?’

‘Oh you’ll know trust me.’

The bell rang.  ‘Come on lets meet he guys for lunch.’

They pulled themselves up going out the class room to the dinner hall joining the que. They chose there lunches sitting down. So what have you got after lunch?’

‘P.E.’

‘Can’t wait to see you in your kit.’

‘Keep your bonner on Jae.’

They all went for a cigarette before the end of lunch, registration then P.E.

Connor met Autumn for her last lesson.  ‘You looked good today.  I think all you girls give us a bonner.’

‘Even you?’

‘There’s only one girl that gives me a bonner.’

‘Really who?’

‘You.’  He said kissing her.

Mr.  Harborne, Miss.  Cleveland inside now.’

‘Miss.’

They walked into their lesson sitting down.

They walked out of school just gone four after having a lecture off their tutor who was not pleased with them at all.

‘I’m sorry Autumn she can be a bitch.’

‘It’s okay Con.’

‘No it’s not.’

‘I was running late.’

Autumn and Connor walked towards the bridge.  ‘Look Autumn I’m  sorry about today.’

‘Its okay.’

‘No its not.  I should’ve realised you had issues with relationships.’

She looked at him.  ‘How do you..’

‘Look Autumn I really like you,  but it’s obvious you’ve just come out of something long term.  So, I’ll try and back away.’

‘You don’t…’

‘I do Autumn.  I can’t promise that I won’t try and kiss you. But I won’t push you in to anything you are not comfortable with.’

‘Thanks Con.’  She kissed him on the cheek moving away, their eyes connected he pressed his lips onto hers kissing her hungrily.

He moved away,  she looked so lost,  so confused. ‘I’m sorry Autumn.  You’re just so different.’

She looked at him.

‘Well.’  He said quickly steering away from the present situation.  ‘I’ll see you tomoz.’

‘Sure.’

He smiled turning, walking away she stood confused.

They walked over the bridge.  ‘I’ll meet you tomorrow.’

‘Okay.’

He kissed her cheek.  ‘Later babe.’

‘Later Con.’

5th   September

 Autumn met Connor  met by the bridge.  ‘Everything okay babe?’

‘Yeah.  I’m fine.’

‘Come on let’s meet the guys.’

He dropped his arm over her shoulders and the three friends walked to school.

‘There you are.’

‘Sorry guys Autumn was a little late this morning.’

‘Makes a change from being you aye Con.’

He pulled a sarcastic face at them walking through the gates as the bell rang.

‘Guess you’ve got Harding this morning.’

‘Yeah.’

‘I’ll see you later babe.’

‘Okay.’

‘Later Autumn.’

‘Later.’

They all walked away.

‘So it’s true that your hanging around with Mr. Harborne?’

‘Miss.’

‘You’re a bright girl Miss. Cleveland you can do with better friends than Mr. Harborne.  He’ll drag you down to his level and your grades will slip.’

‘No they won’t.’

‘I suggest you get better friends ones that won’t bring you down to their level.’

‘Whatever.’

‘And the piercings I want them gone.’

‘Sure.’  She said turning walking away.

‘Bad start Miss. Cleveland?’

She looked at Mathew.  ‘Call me Autumn and yes.’

‘Come in.’

She slipped into the room, he closed the door behind him.  ‘Sit down and tell me why you have a face like death on you this morning.’

She glared angrily at him.

‘I’m sorry Autumn I meant why do you look so angry.  Your eyes are like fire.’  He said sitting opposite her.

‘That sour face bitch.’

‘What’s she done to make you so angry Autumn.’

‘Trying to tell me who I can make friends with.’

‘You made friends that’s good.’

‘Not according to her it ain’t. There’s nought wring with Connor.’

‘Mr. Harborne.’

‘Yeah he’s the only one who chose to  acknowledge me.  Everyone else  thinks I’m invading their territory.’

‘Your not Autumn.’

‘Well it sure as hell feels that way.  Connor took me under his wing we have some of our lessons together, some I have with his friends,  others alone with the stares that say I don’t belong.’

‘Ignore them Autumn and ignore her okay. You  choose who you have as your friends and if you think Mr. Harborne is good for you.’

‘I do.’

‘Well then be friends with him. She can’t stop you Autumn.’

The bell rang.

‘I’ll see you Tuesday okay.’

‘Okay.’

She pulled herself up.  Mathew opened the door.  ‘Just remember Autumn you know best not her.’

‘Thanks Matt.’

‘My pleasure.  I’ll see you next week.’

‘Okay.’

She walked away to her next lesson.

She stood smoking. ‘Hey babe.’ Connor said as Ashby, Harry and James approached her.

‘Con, guys.’

‘You okay Autumn? Your eyes are glazed like someone has pissed you off.’

‘Yeah really pissed you off.’

‘They did.’

‘Was it Harding?’

‘No.’

‘Who then?’

‘Sour face bitch.’

‘What she have to say this time.’

‘She didn’t like that fact I was friends with you she reckoned you’d bring me down to your level. And get this fucker she wanted me to get better friends.’

‘The bitch. I’m going to sort this.’

‘No Con you’ll get in shit.’

‘I don’t fucking care.  We’re friends how dare she tell you who you can and can’t be friends with. Telling you can’t be friends with me how dare she.’

‘Chill Con.’

‘No I fucking won’t chill.’

‘Autumn won’t listen to her. You didn’t did you?’

‘No.’

‘We’re still friends aren’t we?’

‘Yes we are. I choose my friends not her okay. I’ll decide if your good for me or not.’

He smiled pecking her in the cheek.

They had their cigarettes doubting them out before the bell rang and they headed off for their final lesson before lunch.

Mathew stared at them as they sat down to eat.  He had to get her away from them especially Connor Harborne but how?

They had a cigarette and went into registration before their last two lessons. Connor placed his arm around her meeting their friends walking home.  ‘We’ll see you tomorrow Con, Autumn.’

‘Later Guys.’

‘Yeah Later.’

They walked away.  Connor and Autumn stood by the bridge.  ‘At least you don’t look as angry as you did this morning.’

‘Neither do you.’

‘I had chance to calm down.’

‘Me too.’

‘Promise me we’ll always be friends no matter what.’

‘I promise no matter what.’

‘So do I, no matter what Autumn. I’ll l always be here for you.’ He kissed her softly.  ‘I best be going Autumn.’

‘Okay.’

‘Bye babe.’

‘Later Con.’

6th   September

Connor met Autumn on the bridge.  ‘We ready to go?’

‘Yeah.’

He dropped his arm over her shoulders and they walked away.

‘Where were you two last night?’

‘Got in shit again Con?’

‘Yeah I was waiting for Autumn. Bitch nearly had my balls then cracked down on Autumn for being late.’

The bell rang.

‘Come on guys I don’t need to be in anymore shit this week.’

They all walked into the school saying their goodbyes before registration.

‘So what lesson have you got babe?’

‘Biology.’

‘I’ll teach you biology.’

She frowned at Connor.

‘I have wood work. I’ll wait for you.’

‘Okay,’

He walked down the corridor and she went into her lesson.  She sat down he looked at her about to get up to join her. ‘Hi Autumn do you mind if I sit by you?’

‘Not at all.’

He smiled sitting down. Stenton cut his eyes angered he’d get to talk to this girl one way or another if looks could’ve killed him they would.

Connor met Autumn. ‘So how’s it go?’

‘Okay.’

‘I take it Jarrad’s in your class.’

‘Yeah.’

‘Watch him Autumn.’

‘I will.’

They walked together for their next lesson sitting down.

They met their friends met their friends for lunch  sitting down.

‘So Autumn have you met Stenton yet?’

‘No why?’

‘Just he has science the same as you.’

‘I haven’t seen him.’

‘Strange I swore he had Collins for biology.’

‘Unlike Stenton not to make himself known.’

‘Well he aint.’

They had a cigarette before they went into registration.

‘I’ll see you last lesson babe.’

‘Okay.’

They went their separate was. Connor looked at Stenton.  ‘I thought you weren’t in again.’

‘I’m always in Con.’

‘Strange Autumn said she hadn’t seen you.’

‘The new chick.’

‘Yeah.’

‘Fucking Jarrod prick .  I tried Con, but he’s always there.’

‘Try and sit by her before he gets in next time you have a lesson with her.’

‘I’ll try.’

‘You’ll do. You know what he is.’

‘Yeah a leech.’

Autumn met Connor for last lesson which they shared together before walking home.

7th     September

Connor walked over to Autumn. His baggie attire wasn’t her style, she was more

goth.  She looked at him. ‘Any lower they’ll hit the ground.’

‘Not like?’

She stared unimpressed at him. ‘Not really no.  It’s gross who wants to see last weeks washing?!’

He laughed. ‘I like that Morticia.’

She looked dead at him.

‘Well you have to admit you look like someone out of the Adams family with all that slap and those clothes.’

‘What’s wrong with my clothes? I like them.’

‘Each to their own Autumn. We’re all different.’

‘I guess.’

He placed his arm around her.  ‘We can talk awhile if you like before we go into town.’

‘If we must.’

‘I’d just like to get to know you a little better.’

‘Sure.’

They sat down by the lake.

‘So why’d you mom decide to set up home here by the lake?’

‘She got a good deal.’

‘And you did you get a good deal?!

‘I guess.’

‘So.. you smoke long? Never seen you without one. If you could do it in class you would.’

‘A few years. Mom is dead against it. It helps me relax its more therapeutic than music sometimes.’

‘So the music?’

‘Anything that sounds good.’

‘So no hip hop or rap?’

She stared at him.

‘I thought not.’

‘I take it you do.’

‘Yeah.’

‘This is going to be good.’

‘I ain’t against anything Autumn.’

‘So I could turn you?’

‘Maybe.’

‘So what about you Con why do you hate school so much?’

‘Just do.’

‘Like mom said “it will get you nowhere if you bunk.”’

‘So did you bunk off?’

‘A few times.  Mom found out she weren’t too pleased.  I was in so much shit.’

‘M olds don’t care as long as I pass.’

‘No one looks at a school drop out twice.’

‘My family is complicated.’

‘Ain’t everyone’s.’

‘Mom and dad ain’t never pushed me.  I find it hard to stay on one place too long after.’

She looked at him for answers.

He looked at her his eyes were glazed like hers often were. ‘My best friend got blundered to death then a few others.  I was close to death. I hated that fucking place Lakeside was my last stop of three schools. I’ve seen too many friends die.  I must admit I aint no saint Autumn I was never out of shit.  It was like my parents daint care. I got sent to Lakeside because no one could deal with me the way I was.  Grayson was the best I ever had, he made time for me and to listen to me none of the others did.  I soon made friends pity no one understands me but my friends.’

She looked at him with tears in her eyes she knew how that felt.  Why didn’t people understand how she felt ? She just wanted to be left alone to get on with it.

‘You okay Autumn?’

‘Yeah.’

‘I’m sorry you wanted to know about me guess you do now. Guess you hate me.’

‘No.’

‘Good.  Let’s get rid of those tears before they ruin your look.’

She tried to laugh but found it hard to.

He wiped her eyes.  ‘Next time you want to cry on me no make up aye.’  He wiped his fingers on his jeans. ‘Come on let’s go into town.’

He took her hand pulling them both up walking away from the lake heading into town for a pizza.

Connor walked Autumn back home to a large three bedroom house by the river. ‘Nice digs.’

‘Yeah. The third room is moms office.’

‘Nice,’

‘Yeah she’s in there most of the time.’

‘Bet it’s hard when you want to talk.’

‘I’d rather not.’

He coughed. ‘Well I’ll see you Monday.’

‘Sure.’

‘Unless you’d like my company tomorrow.’

‘I have home work.’

‘I could always help you.’

‘Sure.’

‘I’ll come round about two okay.’

‘Sure.’

He pecked her on the cheek. ‘I’ll see you tomorrow.’

‘Okay.’

‘Bye Autumn.’

‘Bye.’

Connor walked away, Autumn stepped into the house closing the door.

‘Isn’t your friend joining us for supper?’

‘No. He’s gone home.’

‘He’s always welcome.’

‘He’s coming round tomorrow.  We’re doing home work.’

‘Good it’s nice to see you have friends.’

8th   September

Connor knocked on the door, the eldish lady with glasses opened the door to the baggy attired teenager. ‘Hello.’

‘Hi is Autumn in?’

‘Yes.  You must be Connor.’

‘I am.’

‘Nice to meet you.’

‘You to.’

‘Come in.’

‘Thanks.’

He stepped in.  ‘Autumn speaks highly of you.’

‘Really.’  He said impressed.

‘Yes she does. She’s in her room, second on the left.  Hope you can find her.’

He smiled.  ‘Thanks.’

He took heavy strides up the staircase knocking on her door.  ‘Yeh.’

‘It’s me Con.’

‘Come in.’

He pushed the door open looking over the mass of mess he thought he was untidy.  ‘Guess your mom was right.’

‘Sorry I meant to sort it.’

‘Guess you never got round to it.’

‘I see your in your bag *** jeans again.’

‘See Morticia’s back!’ He cracked.

‘Close the door and sit down your making the place look untidy.’

He laughed closing the door sitting down on the bed. ‘So.. your mom seems cool.’

‘She is.’

‘So am I the first guy that’s been in your room.’

‘I guess.  Your he first one she’s allowed in.’

‘Cool.... shall we start.’

‘Guess we should.’

Connor pulled out his books and they began there home work.

Autumns’ mom knocked the door peering in. ‘Would you like to stay for supper Connor there’s plenty.’

‘I have to be getting back.’

‘Your welcome.’

He looked at Autumn who smiled briefly.  Then at her mom. ‘Thanks I will.’

She smiled closing the door.

‘You didn’t have to.’

‘I wanted to.’

‘So are we done?’

‘We are.’

They closed their books.  He leaned over.  ‘I enjoyed today we should do all our homework together.’  His lips touched hers kissing her. He moved away.  ‘Come on I bet your mom’s waiting.’

‘Yeah.’

They pulled themselves up going down stairs to a table full of  sandwiches, trifle, crisps and sausage rolls.  ‘You didn’t have to mom.’

‘Have to hospitable.’

Connor smiled, they all sat down talking about Autumn’s new high school.

‘Thanks for the grub Mrs. Cleveland.’

‘My pleasure.’

‘I best be going.’

‘Sure.’

He pulled himself up. ‘Well thanks again.’

‘Come around anytime you’re always welcome.’

‘Thanks I will.’

Autumn opened the door showing Connor out.  ‘I think she likes you.’

‘She’s pretty cool too.’ He looked at Autumn. ‘I’ll meet you on the bridge tomorrow at eight thirty okay.’

‘Okay.’

He pecked her on the cheek.  ‘Night Autumn.’

‘Night Con.’

She closed the door as he walked up the drive.  She went into the lounge sitting down.

‘Nice boy very polite.  You’ve found a good friend Autumn.’

‘I know.’

9th   September

Connor met Autumn by the bridge she yawned as she strode heavily over to him. You

look like you don’t want to go today.’

‘I’m tired Con. I daint get much sleep.’

‘It’s okay Autumn. Just try and stay awake during lesson.’

‘I’ll try.’

He dropped his arm over her. Come on let’s go before we’re late.’

They walked over the bridge heading to school.

‘Bout time.’

‘Sorry guys Autumn didn’t get much sleep.’

‘Keep her awake aye Con?!’

Harry and Ashby nudged James. ‘Owe.’

‘No gee is that all you think about?’

‘Like you don’t.’

They all slapped James around the head. ‘Owe guys.’

‘Well keep your gob shut and your obscene comments to yourself.’

‘Says the one who gives them.’

‘I don’t think Autumn wants it this morning.’

The bell rang and they all went in for registration then for first lesson. ‘I’ll see you second period okay.’

‘Okay.’

He pecked Autumn on the cheek walking away as she went into her physics lesson. Jarrad called her over to him. Stenton looked at her as she sat down. How he wished the leech would just **** off and leech onto someone else so give her a chance to talk to someone else.

The bell rang and they all packed up Their stuff ushing  out of the class. Connor placed his arm around Autumn Jarrod pissed, Stenton wondering how the hell he done it.

They met Ashby, Harry and James for break. ‘So ain’t Dan back yet?’

‘Not sure. I think he said he’d be back in tomorrow.’

‘You’ll like him Autumn he’s like Con.’

‘Yep there’ll be some arguments.’

‘Why?’

‘Just say they think alike.’

‘Oh okay.’

The bell rang. They all doubted out their cigarettes going to their last lesson before lunch. Connor sat next to Autumn. ‘You’ll like Dan trust me, he’s in our form too.’

She smiled awkwardly.

‘Right class settle down.’

The bell rang for lunch Connor and Autumn met their friends for lunch before having another cigarette before the bell rang fro the final two lessons of the day.

The five friends walked out of school together, walking home.

‘We’ll see you guys tomorrow.’

‘You will.’

‘Later Con, Autumn.’

‘Later.’

‘Yeah bye.’

Their friends walked away as they continued towards the lake and the bridge. ‘I’ll see you tomorrow Autumn.’

‘Okay.’

He pecked her on He cheek and walked away she headed towards home.

13th   September

Daniel stood by the bridge waiting and hoping that Autumn would be alone. She was.

‘No Con?’

‘He’s meeting me here. Look Dan about Saturday.’

‘Can’t wait can you?’

‘I don’t think it’s such a good idea.’

‘Why not? We’re friends aren’t we?’

‘Yeah, but Con.’

‘I’m sure he won’t mind it’s a few hours red not all day. It won’t kill you he ain’t got to know.’

‘Bu..’

‘He’s coming.’

Connor bounced over to them smiling. ‘You shit the bed.’

‘No like to get up bright and early me.’

‘Sure you do. Morning babe.’ He said kissing her in the cheek.

‘Con.’

‘What’s your excuse Con? You usually sleep around the clock.’

‘Well I now have something to get up for.’

‘Yeah school!!’ He cracked.

Connor placed his arm round Autumn, pulling her close making her feel uncomfortable. ‘These last two years are going to be worth the hard work and a new friend to keep me in check.’

‘You really think she’s going to do that?’

‘I do.’

They all walked away heading to school.

‘Wow both of you on time. You both boning her?!’

Ashby kicked Jae. ‘Owe.’

‘No we’re not and if we were it’s none of your fucking business.’

‘What’s your excuse then? Or do you just want to impress her.’

They looked dead at him.

‘Don’t worry Autumn they’ll get board. It won’t last long. They’ll both be back in detention soon for being late.’

They all went into the school as the bell rang saying their goodbyes before registration.

Autumn sat down the dark haired,  green eyed male sat next to her. She looked at him. ‘You don’t mind do you?’

‘It’s a free country.’

He smiled. ‘I’m Stenton.’

‘Autumn.’

‘The new chick.’

‘Yeah.’

‘So how you finding the dump?’

‘Same shit different day.’

He smiled he could tell her nervousness yet chose to ignore it. ‘So how are you settling in?’

‘Okay.’

‘Any of the guys hassling you?’

‘Not really no.’

‘That’s surprising.’

‘Why?’

‘Just guys see a pretty face around here and they usually make she knows about it. Trust me there’s been loads of  fights. Every guy likes a hot girl.’

‘Like you.’ She said bluntly.

He went to ask her what the hell she was talking about as he got interrupted.

‘Right class settle down and we’ll begin.’

The bell rang for the end of the lesson they all picked up their belongings walking out of the room.

‘Hey red wait up.’

She looked at him, daint this guy know when o quit? ‘What is it Stenton?’

‘What the hell was that crack about?’

‘It’s true. Isn’t it?’

‘Who told you?’

She cut her eyes at him staring straight through him. Stating her silence.

‘Con right, I tell you something for nought red. He ain’t no different than any other guy round here. Him and his friends will just get to know you to get inside you.’

‘Con ain’t like that, none of them are.’

‘He is, he just wants to get to know you so he can put it inside you.’

‘What ever!’

‘Don’t believe me then.’

‘I won’t.’

‘I ain’t that bad red if you just get to know me.’

‘I have to go Stenton.’

Connor looked over. ‘You bothering her Stenton?’

‘No, just talking.’

‘Well you can go now we have lesson.’

‘Sure I’ll see you later Autumn.’

‘Yeah sure.’

He walked away Connor and Stenton cutting eyes at one another. ‘You okay babe?’

‘Yeah.’

‘Come on or we’ll be late.’

They went into their next class sitting down.

‘So what did Stenton say?’

‘Not much. Just all the guys around here are the same when there’s a new face.’

‘No we’re not.’

‘Right class lets all settle down we have a lot to get through today.’

They all pulled their books out Connor looking at Autumn, was there something she wasn’t telling him?

The bell rang and they all packed away soothing out of the room Connor dropped his arm over her shoulders. She flinched. ‘You okay babe?’

‘Yeah fine.’

‘What did he really say?’

‘Just you and the guys were only friends with me for one thing.’

‘No were not, well I’m not, not so sure about the others I can’t vouch for them or their anatomy. I just want to be friends, I really like you Stenton talks bullshit babe. He’s had more screwed balls than any of us for his foul mouth.  Girls won’t even go any where near him because he’s to full on.’  He looked at Autumn. ‘I’m not too full on am I?’

‘No.’

‘Good.’

They ventured outside to meet their friends.

‘What’s with the face Con?’

‘Stenton.’

‘Oh no.’

‘What’s he done this time?’

‘He seems to think that we’re only friends with Autumn so we can all get inside her.’

‘Yeah right.’

‘That’s what he said.’

‘He needs to take a look in the fucking mirror a good long hard look. He don’t know how to keep his **** in.’

The bell rang. They all doubted out their cigarettes. Going into their last lesson before lunch,

Connor pinned Stenton before their last lesson before lunch his eyes cold and blank. ‘Con what gives?’

‘Don’t ever slag us off in front of Autumn again.’

‘It was the truth.’

‘The only one that thinks with their **** around here is you.’

‘I ain’t the only one.Con.’

‘She’s our friend Stenton stay away.’

‘You ain’t her keeper.’

‘No but I’m your worst fucking nightmare.’

‘You don’t scare me Con. If I want to be friends with her I will be.’

‘Connor Harborne, Jonah Stenton in here now.’

Connor loosed Stenton. ‘Stay away.’

They walked into the class sitting down. The bell rang for lunch.

Connor met Autumn and his friends for lunch still vexed. They chose not to ask eating before they went out side for a cigarette he stood smoking angrily. Before the bell went he took Autumns hand pulling her with him. ‘Wowh Con what’s the rush. You left Dan behind.’

‘He can catch up.’ He pulled her close. He pressed his lips on hers kissing her hungrily with tongue. He moved away. ‘What was all that about Con?’

‘Your mine Autumn he’s not having you.’

‘Who?’

‘Stenton.’

‘I’m not interested Con.’

‘He is.’

‘Well I’m not.’

‘Gee Con what’s the rush?’ Daniel asked out of breath.

‘Nought.’

‘Well don’t take your anger out on us. Stenton’s an *** you should really ignore him.’

‘I know. He just knows which buttons to press.’

‘Yeah the wrong ones with you.’

‘Come on we best get to registration.’

‘The guys said they’d meet us by the gates.’

‘Sure.’

They all walked away to registration then into their last two lessons. Autumn looking out of the window wondering what the hell was wrong with Con she’d never seen him like that before his eyes scared her so cold, so hollow, so glazed. ‘You still with us Miss. Cleveland ?’

‘Yeah.’

The bell rang for end of lesson and the end of another day. She walked out of school meeting Connor and the others. He dropped his arm over her before they all walked away. Saying their goodbyes. ‘I’ll see you two tomorrow.’

‘Sure Dan laterz.’

‘Yeah bye Dan.’

Daniel walked away Connor looked at Autumn . ‘You okay Con, just today you didn’t seem your normal self.’

‘I’m sorry Autumn we all know Stenton. He just knows how to push it and how to keep pushing it to make you snap.’

‘I can handle him Con,’

‘Maybe, but I’d like to take care of you.’

‘I can take care of myself Con.’

‘I know.’  He pulled her close. ‘I hope we can be more than what we are now. I know your not ready for anything heavy but in time you might be.’ He leaned forward pressing his lips on her kissing her hungrily with tongue. He moved away. ‘I’ll meet you here tomorrow at three okay.’

‘Okay.’

‘I’ll see you later babe.’

‘Yeah later Con.’

He walked away as she looked over the lake she hoped they could be friends without any complications. She knew how he felt and what he wanted, but could she ever give it to him?

14th   September

Autumn walked up to the bridge unsure she should be. Connor wouldn’t be too

pleased if he knew Dan had asked her to meet up with him. He stood waiting smoking, his Mohawk higher than she remembered. His blue eyes glistening in the sun, his attire a lot different than she expected it to be, she expected him to be more like Con than her. His dark clothing which complemented his dark hair and Dc. Martens which were laced half way, his tight ripped jeans pushed into them. His Metallica tee-shirt almost buried him. He smiled, she returned his smile awkwardly. ‘I almost didn’t think you were coming, I almost gave up on you.’

‘I’m not that late am I?’

‘Almost half hour. I’ve waited longer.’

‘Sorry but mom was going on a bender that I was meeting up with you and asked me where Connor was. It took me an hour to explain to her that we were just friends and that I was seeing Connor later, then we were all going to the cinema.  She recons I’m playing with fire and I’m going to get burned. Try telling someone whose not listening that we’re all just friends and nothing else.’

‘It’s cool red. I know plenty girls that turn up an hour late and leave you wondering if they’re gonna turn up at all, and when they finally decide to they turn up they’re with their friends when you think it’s just going to be the two of you.’

‘I’m sorry Dan.’

‘Don’t be. You’re the first that hasn’t.’

‘You’re my friend Dan.’

‘But you were still unsure that it was a good idea weren’t you?’

‘It’s just Con. He’s a little.’

‘Over protective.’

‘Yeah.’

‘He’ll be cool red. We’re all friends, come on we’ll get a coffee or summert and get to know one another. Then maybe lunch before you meet Con.’

‘Okay.’

They walked away heading for the café which talk almost half an hour to get to from the lake. They sat down having a latte.

‘So how are you finding school?’

‘Okay.’

‘And the guys?’

‘They’re a bit full on.’

‘You’ll get use to it. Trust me.’

‘I guess.’

‘So are any of the slags giving you any hassle?’

‘Not really no, none of them talk to me.’

‘Ignore them. They’re just jealous red cause you’re the new skirt and you’re getting more attention than them.

‘I guess.’

‘You have friends red.’ He said placing his hand over hers. ‘You have us you don’t need anyone else.’

She looked at him, he smiled.  ‘So where did you live before here?’

‘The city.’

‘And before? The accent.’

‘Netherlands.’

‘So you leave anyone behind?’

‘Friends.’

‘No one special.’

‘No.’

He smiled.

She quickly pulled her hand from under hers picking up her latte drinking it nervously.

‘I don’t offend you do I red?’

‘No why?’

‘Just you seem a little anxious around me, like you don’t want to be around me.’

‘It’s not you Dan.’

‘Con right.’

‘He just thinks every guy wants me.’

‘I do, but at a guess there’s others that do to.’ He looked at her. ‘Look red I really like you, but so does Con. We’re friends I’d like more, but it’s your choice who you want to be with.’

‘I’m not ready for any of that Dan.’

‘I understand, Con on the other hand I’m not sure how long he will though. A girl like you is worth waiting for trust me.’

They finished their lattes and left the café. ‘We’ll walk through the park and grab a bite to eat before you meet Con okay.’

‘Okay,’

They strolled through the park having a hotdog and a coke before heading off to the lake where Daniel left Autumn. ‘I enjoyed today red. I hope that we can do it again.’

She smiled slightly.

He moved forward pecking her in the cheek. ‘I’ll see you later okay.’

‘Okay.’

He turned walking away as she walked over the bridge sitting by the lake lighting a cigarette.

Connor sat next to her lighting a cigarette, he placed his arm around her kissing her cheek. ‘Afternoon babe.’

She looked at him. ‘Con.’

‘So have you been out here long?’

‘A while mom gave me a headache.’

‘How come?’

‘She disapproved of me going out with all you boys.’

‘We’re all friends babe.’

‘Try telling a brick that.’

‘I’ll tell her.’

‘It’s fine Con really, after an hour I walked out. She’ll be fine.’

‘Good.’ He said kissing her. ‘So are you still up for the flicks later?’

‘Yeah.’

‘Cool. Back seat.’ He said raising his eyebrows.

‘What?!’

‘We all sit on the back row babe.’

‘Oh okay.’

‘Don’t worry babe nought will happen.’

Connor and Autumn pulled themselves up walking away from the river heading into town to the cinema to meet their friends.

‘There they are.’

‘Bout time it starts in five.’

 ‘Well lets go.’

They all went in acquiring their tickets. Dan looking at Autumn unnoticed. Their tickets ripped before they went on sitting down in the back row. Autumn squashed between Connor and Daniel feeling uncomfortable as Connor placed his arm over the back of the chair.

The lights came back on they all pulled themselves up walking out the cinema, Connors arm hanging lifelessly over Autumns shoulders.

‘Well that was better than I thought it would be.’

‘So we all up for a burger and shake?’

‘I am. I’m starving.’

‘You always are Jay.’

They laughed. Walking into the burger bar sliding onto the booth ordering the burgers and shakes. Connors arm still over Autumn’s shoulders.

‘So have you got any plans for tomorrow guys.’

‘I for one am chillin.’

‘Me to.’

‘What about you Autumn any plans for tomorrow.’

‘She’ll be with me,’

‘Autumn.’

‘Homework.’

‘Then she’ll be with me.’

‘She can answer for herself Con.’

‘I know.’

‘So Autumn you meeting Con tomorrow?’

‘I suppose.’

‘Dan what are you doing?’

‘Sleeping.’

They laughed.

‘So you’ve done all of your work?’

‘Most of it.’

‘Well you best do it unless you want detention.’

‘So what will you be doing tomorrow Ash?’

‘Tidying my room.’

‘Get Autumn to help she has a tidy room don’t you babe.’

She scoured at Con.

‘See I told you they were fucking.’

They slapped Jay, Dan kicked him. ‘Owe.’

‘Shut the **** up it’s their business not ours.’

‘Were not okay. We done our homework in there just about found the bed.’

‘So it’s as bad as Ahs’s.’

‘It’s not that bad.’

‘Not according to your mom Ash it’s a ses pit.’

‘Like Autumns then!’ Connor cracked laughing.

She scoured at him.

The burgers, fries and shakes were placed on the table. ‘Cheers.’ They all chimed. Digging in as the waitress walked away

‘So how’s your second week been Autumn?’

‘Okay I guess.’

‘You had any run ins?’

‘Not really.’

‘Surprised, but I guess all the sluts and male whores are staying away or they’ll have Con to deal with aye Con.’

‘Yep.’

They all pulled themselves up leaving the burger bar.

‘Well I guess we’ll see you all Monday.’

‘You will.’

‘Laters.’

‘Yeah laters guys.’

They walked away Connor, Daniel and Autumn continued down the street. ‘Well I best be going Con. I’ll see you Monday.’

‘You will.’

They crashed fists.

‘Later red.’

‘Yeah Later Dan.’

He walked away.

‘He’s quiet.’

‘Is he can’t say I noticed.’

‘So, is it okay for me to see you tomorrow?’

‘Yeah it’s fine.’

‘I didn’t mean to spring myself on you like that but..’

‘It’s okay Con.’

‘About three it’ll give you time to do your homework.’

‘Yeah okay.’

He kissed her softly. ‘Night babe.’

‘Night Con.’

15th   September

Autumn sat by the river smoking, the sun reflecting like a mirror across it, the water

rippling as the ducks swam across it. It was so peaceful out here.

‘Out here again?’

She looked over at him, his hair fell over his face. ‘Dan.’

‘Your mom said that you were out here.’

‘You went to my house?’

‘Yeah. She weren’t to pleased.’

‘We had an argument.’

‘So you didn’t get your homework done?’

‘Yeah early this morning before breakfast, before she started laying into me. I walked out slamming  the door behind me.’

‘Gee I thought my mom held a grudge.’

‘I’m sorry Dan she thought you all wanted to jump on me.’

‘I can think of two of us that do, the others nagh I doubt it.’

She looked at him.

‘What?!’

‘Don’t Dan.’

‘Why not? It’s the truth, I like you red so does Con. We can’t help it if our boners have other ideas.’

‘Why are you here Dan?’

‘I came round to see if you wanted any help with your homework, but I guess you don’t seen as you’ve already done it.’

‘I have, but thanks for asking anyway.’

He smiled. ‘So, when are you meeting Con?’

‘Three.’

He moved closer, placing his hand on her face. ‘I really like you red.  I hope we can be more than just friends.’

‘We can’t I’m sor..’

He pressed his lips on hers kissing er hungrily. He moved away Taylor stared back at her. ‘We’ll do something this weekend just the two of us. I promise, no friends just us.’

‘Red you okay?’

She looked at him her eyes glazed.

‘Red you okay?’

They softened. ‘Yeah I’m fine.’

‘You sure? Only your eyes were all dilated like you were on drugs or summert.’

‘No I’m fine really.’ She lied she couldn’t tell him what was going on she was unsure herself.

‘Well I guess I best be going, but if you ever need any help with your homework anytime.’

‘I will thanks.’

He pulled himself up. ‘Later red.’

‘Yeah later.’

He walked away, she lay back on the grass closing her eyes. His lips touched hers she quickly opened her eyes. He smiled. ‘Con.’

He lay beside her. ‘So have you seen Dan today? Only your mom said he’d been round. Her face said she weren’t to happy.’

‘Yeah he offered to help me with my homework.’

‘You sure, just he usually needs the help.’

‘Yeah that’s what he said.’

‘So what gives with your mom?’

‘She’s still pissed I went out with all of you yesterday.’

‘What she think we’re going to do, jump on you?’

‘That’s what she said.’

‘Really. Look babe I like you a lot, but there’s a time and place, the back row of the flicks ain’t it. The guys like you as a friend that’s all.’

‘I know.’

He ran his fingers through her hair. ‘I’d like more, but only when you’re ready and when you can trust me enough to tell me about your past so we can move on and get to know one another the way I want to.’

She looked at him nervously, he moved closer pressing his lips on hers kissing her hungrily. He moved away lying beside her holding her close. ‘But until you decide when you’re ready I’m here as your friend.’

He kissed her softly holding her.