E 4
Arien leaned forward in the passenger seat, feet swinging.
Arien Hudson
Why are you staring at me like that?
Louis Adelio
I’m not staring
Arien Hudson
You haven’t blinked in two minutes
Louis Adelio
You’re making that up.
Roderick, from the driver’s seat, grinned at the mirror.
Roderick Hudson
Should I leave you two in the car and go in first?
Roderick Hudson
(Chuckles)
Roderick parked and turned off the engine.
Roderick Hudson
Arien, orientation for your grade is in the main hall.
Roderick Hudson
I’ll walk you in.
Arien Hudson
I want Looie to come
Louis Adelio
I’m not doing your orientation
Arien Hudson
Then just walk with me
The halls were buzzing — new Term , new faces.
Arien clutched his backpack straps with both hands, cheeks a little pink as they walked inside.
Arien Hudson
(Whispers to Louis)
Arien Hudson
Why is everyone staring?
A girl passed them, looked at Arien, then at Louis, and whispered something to her friend
Arien Hudson
They think I’m your brother
Arien Hudson
They think I’m your boyfriend?
Louis Adelio
You’re nine.
They reached the main hall.
Roderick handed Arien a printed schedule.
Roderick Hudson
I’ll pick you up at three.
Roderick Hudson
Don’t cause chaos.
Roderick Hudson
(Looks at Louis)
Roderick Hudson
Study well Kid
Roderick Hudson
(Ruffles his hair and leaves)
Arien looked at Louis again, smaller than the crowd, but somehow more centered than anyone else.
Louis stared at him for a moment. Quiet.
Louis Adelio
Don’t get lost.
Arien Hudson
You’ll come find me if I do
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