Sweet Dreams

Friday, May 14, 2004

Fresh beginnings

Despite the scorching weather, the playground was crowded with kids let loose during recess. Spying a large tree with spread-out branches, offering a cool shade from the sun, Megan decided to sit under it. She walked past the playground and reached the tree. As she was about to take a seat, she heard some sobs coming from the other side of the tree.

Girl (in a coaxing voice): Oh, don't cry Jessie, let's tell Miss Hunter. She'll know what to do. She's very nice.
Jessie (sobbing piteously): Noo... He will know if we tell and then... (trailed off to cry harder).
Girl (frustrated): Then what? We can't let him bully us. My mom says...

Feeling curious, Megan slowly stepped around the large trunk and saw two girls, one with a black bob and the girl called Jessie, with long blonde hair. She spoke up.

Megan (gently): What's wrong? Can I help?
Girl (startled): Oh. (Looks uncertainly at Jessie then Megan and making a decision, she spoke hurriedly) Well, see there's this boy, Jake, he saw Jessie coming out from the bathroom with her dress stuck in her panties and he threatened to tell everyone what kind of panties she's wearing.
Jessie: Lauren! (anguished cry)
Lauren (exasperated): Well, everyone's going to know anyway.
Megan (concerned): So what did he want in return?
Lauren: He wants the new box of crayons which her favourite uncle just bought for her and she doesn't want to give it to him.
Megan (angrily): Of course not! Wait, is his name Jake Thomas? I know him!
Jessie (finally ceased sobbing): You are his friend? (uncertainly) Can you tell him not to be so mean?
Megan (resolved): We are not friends but I'm not afraid of bullies. Let's go find him now.
Jessie and Lauren: Are you sure?

Megan: Let's go!

Megan turned to lead the way but before the group could move off, another girl caught up with them.

Katie (chattily): Hey, what's up, Megan? The slide is so fun but well I can't take the heat anymore. Phew!
Megan: Hi Katie, we've got a problem. It's Jake Thomas. He's bullying Jessie here. Quick, before recess is over.
Katie (gleefully): Ohh, a fight. Let's go!

The group of four first-graders made their way across the playground with Megan in the lead, seeking the unfortunate bully, Jake Thomas.

Posted at 12:47 am by chic_belle
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A Brand New Day

It was the perfect autumnal day. A gentle breeze and ocassional whirls of varying green,and red leaves falling from branches of the trees that lined the streets, and settling on the ground. The four girls were in the kitchen of Megan's house, planning their annual back-to-school shopping trip that they were making after their meal. They sat themselves in the cosy cafe-like corner booth that Megan's father had designed for the kitchen and chatted excitedlly as they ate their brunch.

Katie: Well, I definitely want to go to the Clothes Shack. They have some funky things there at cheap prices.
Lauren: This is good pasta, Megan. Sure, I like that store too but I want to go to the Foot Boutique after that. I need new shoes!
Megan (rolling her eyes): You'll always need new shoes, despite the dozens of pairs in your closet. I need some sweaters, green and purple ones would be great.
Jessie: I need accessories and make-up so we need to drop by the cute little store we saw the other time.
Katie: I lurve scrambled eggs on toast.. these are yummy...
Jessie: Oh, let's finish up so we can go!

Soon, the table was cleared and the washing-up done. The girls started out for the front door. Megan locked up the house and unlocked her car. The girls piled into an apple green convertible and Megan drove to the nearest shopping mall which was about half an hour away.

Pedestrians who caught a view of the girls in the car would be struck by the mix of striking looks the four girls sported and the infectious giggles that pervaded their conversation. The girls, Megan, Katie, Jessie and Lauren had struck up a close friendship ever since their first day at Everwood Elementary where they had faced down a bully who was targeting Jessie and shamed him into repentance. The fomer bully, Jake Thomas, was now a senior at their high school and a good friend of the girls. He was still a rapscallion but at times, assumed a big brother figure towards them. The girls were going to be juniors in the coming school year and despite their different positions in the student body, remained close friends.

Megan, tall at 5 ft 10 in, was svelte with loose auburn curls trailing down her back. She has piercing green eyes that contrasted intriguingly with her hair and was known as the chief photographer for the school newspaper. Megan could be reserved at times and her behind-the- camera duty suited her as she was uncomfortable being in the limelight. She was amiable and patient but stubborn. Generally, she was well-liked if not well-understood.

Katie, petite at 5 ft 5 in, was curvy with an infectious smile. She had a mop of short glossy layered brown waves framing her pixie-ish face and arresting violet eyes. She held the position of editor for the school newspaper and aimed to be the chief editor in her senior year. Katie had an outgoing personality with good people skills which made her well-liked as an editor and person. But she could be single-minded at times and be oblivious to her surroundings.

Lauren was nearly as tall as Megan, standing at 5 ft 9 in and slim. With a stylish close crop of black hair and intensely bright blue eyes, she cut a sophisticated figure and was a member of the drama club in school. The phrase 'still waters run deep' fitted Lauren best. She always appeared calm and composed and was quite the trend-setter. In the company of close friends, she would let loose her more map-cap side, which was usually revealed only on the stage when required.

Jessie with her long straight golden blonde hair and bubbly enthusiasm was a cheerleader. She was 5 ft 7 in, with a curvy figure and dreamy aqua eyes. Although she had her own cheerleading clique in school, she managed to split her time between the two diverse groups. Privately, this group of friends was her top priority given their long history. Jessie was popular with the whole student body due to her vivacious and friendly nature. She was extroverted and easygoing.

Posted at 03:20 am by chic_belle
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Back to School

"Bringgggg!" the alarm went off. An arm shot out from under a blanket to turn it off. Blessed silence. Then...

Mom (knocking repeatedly on the door): Megan! It's time to wake up! Quick, breakfast's waiting!
Megan (sleepily): ARggghhhh.... ok... ok.. i'm getting up.

She stretched out her long limbs first before crawling out of her bed. She began to tidy her bed before trudging to the bathroom for a quick shower. After the shower, she felt refreshed and debated what to wear on the first day of this school year.

Finally, she decided on a casual outfit that would not hinder her in any photo-taking. She dressed in jeans, a long-sleeved white shirt with narrow purple stripes and a V-neck emerald green sweater that matches her eyes, over the shirt. She decided against strappy sandals and wore her red trainers instead. Grabbing her haversack, she went down to have breakfast with her family.

Megan belonged to a rather big family. She had three other siblings. An older brother was currently in his last year in an eastern law school and her eldest sibling, a sister, was already married with one kid and living in the next county. Thus, only she and her youngest sibling, a thirteen-year-old boy, was staying with her parents at the moment. Her dad had a small successful business and her mom had her own little bookstore in town. They were quite well-off and had a big rambling house with a considerable compound around it. They even had their own pool in the backyard, along with a small greenhouse that her parents pottered in.

After breakfast, Megan kissed her parents goodbye and wished her brother a good first day. She had to pick Katie up from a few houses down. All the four girls had their driver's license but only Megan and Lauren had their own cars. Jessie preferred to be driven around and Lauren was picking her up this morning. Katie, too, rather be a passenger than a driver. Katie lived in the same neighbourhood as Megan but Jessie and Lauren lived about three blocks away.

Katie was already waiting at her sidewalk and she got into the car quickly.

Katie (excitedly): What do you think of my outfit? Thought that it matches the season and all. I can't wait for the newspaper meeting after school. Wonder what Ms Drew has in store for us this year..
Megan (giving Katie's outfit the once-over): Pretty good but only you can carry it off!

Katie was wearing a knee-length burnt orange dress with a flouncy hem paired with a dark green cardigan, along with brown ankle boots and a red beret perched jauntily on her curls.

Soon, the girls had reached the school and Megan parked her car. Then, they went looking for the other Jessie and Lauren. The four of them met up at the water fountain near the general office. Lauren was dressed in dark jeans, a long-sleeved fitted white shirt buttoned only halfway and over the shirt, a fitted black suede jacket buttoned in the middle. On her feet were strappy high heels. Jessie was wearing a short flirty denim pleated skirt with a tight V-neck red cashmere sweater and black knee-high leather boots. They looked pretty smashing.

Megan: So do we have the same homeroom? What about other classes? Tell me we have the same lunch period at least.
Lauren: Yep, we have the same lunch period. Let's compare the rest.

The girls discussed their schedules and agreed to meet for lunch at Lauren's locker which was nearest to the cafeteria. It turned out that they were lucky enough to be in the same homeroom, all four of them. As for the other classes, they had some in common too. They had English together, Jessie had Biology with Katie, Lauren and Megan had French, Katie and Lauren had Trigonometry and Megan and Jessie had History.

The bell rang, signalling the commencement of classes and the girls hurried to find their room.

Posted at 09:58 pm by chic_belle
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Sunday, May 16, 2004

Lunchtime

It was lunchtime. Finally. Katie was the first to reach Lauren's locker and she shuffled her feet impatiently while waiting for the rest. Lauren soon joined her and they started comparing notes on the classes they had. Minutes later, Megan and Jessie reached them together, from their History class. The gang then proceeded to the cafeteria.

Jessie (perkily): Well, it's sure is fun to be back in school. I love the holidays but there's more action during term time.
Lauren (slowly): Definitely, and I can't wait for the next production by the drama club. Hope it's something exciting.
Katie (enthusiastically): Yup, I'm hoping that it'll be just as great at the newspaper.
Megan (calmly) : I miss the lessons too. I mean, the hols was great but I can't wait to learn new things.
Jessie & Katie (teasingly): Nerd!
Megan (slightly embarrassed): Hey, Lauren loves the classes too.
Lauren (coolly): Ya, there's nothing to be ashamed about liking to learn. After all, knowledge is power. And you two can't deny that you like certain classes too and not just for the people in them.
Jessie (smiling): Of course, of course it's just fun to razz Meg.

The girls laughed and ate their lunch quietly for some minutes.

Lauren: By the way, are you still dating Justin, Jessie?

Megan (jokingly): You should, you sound so good together, Justin and Jessie, you could be a performing duo.

Jessie threw a big crumb at Megan who ducked laughingly. She then tossed her hair and replied.

Jessie (in a matter-of-fact way): Nope, we went out a few more times in the earlier part of the hols, as you'll know before he went away with his family. He called me a few weeks later to say that he was seeing this other girl at the place he was staying in. So we called it off. Anyway, it was just casual between the two of us. Nothing serious.
Katie (agog): And you only told us this now. I thought you two would be getting back when school starts.
Jessie (dismissively): Oh, it wasn't that big a deal. I was too caught up in something back then and I forgot to tell you guys.
Megan: As long as you are okay with it. You are, right?
Jessie (grinning): But of course, you know, me. I have bigger fish to fry.
Lauren (interestedly): Ohhh, do tell. Who's your next target?

Out of the four girls, only Jessie had a series of casual dates and boyfriends over the years. She was pretty and popular and she enjoyed going out with different guys. So far, she had never been serious about a particular guy. Katie had been out on a considerable number of dates but she was still holding out for that perfect guy of her dreams. She was asked out regularly though, most of which she accepted but things never developed beyond the platonic.Lauren had a relationship with someone in their sophomore year but it ended badly and she been wary since. She was asked out occassionally but most guys were intimidated by her rather cool demeanor. Megan, too, had dated quite a a few guys but she wasn't very interested in them and the relationships just fizzled out. Like Lauren, guys were rather apprehensive of her self-confidence.

The girls finished lunch and promised to meet up after their extra-curricular activities. It was a tradition for them to have dinner together on the first day of school, one which their families were aware of. Thus, they would meet up at Angelo's, their favourite Italian restaurant in the evening. They went their separate ways when the bell rang with Katie and Jessie going off together for Biology.

Posted at 12:43 am by chic_belle
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Encounters

Upon reaching the laboratory, Katie and Jessie chose adjacent seats and chatted while waiting for the teacher to show up. They said 'Hi' to many of their acquaintances and friends who shared the same class. Soon, Mr Rolands, the Biology teacher turned up and the class gradually quietened down.

Mr Rolands (smiling): Ah, a very good afternoon, Class. Let's look forward to a year of exciting discoveries and stimulating lessons. Not to forget the challenging quizzes I have in store. (The whole class groaned at this.) I see that you have arranged yourselves in pairs to your satisfaction. But no, I hate for you to have to pair up boringly with your chosen partner, no doubt, a familiar friend. Let's jazz up the class. I shall pair you up. (More groans from the class at this stage.)

Suddenly, the door opened and a student stepped in. To Katie, it was like a vision had just appeared. He was tall and lean, with longish straight hair the color of cornsilk, gently falling to his shoulders. His beautiful almond-shaped eyes matched the light grey shirt he was wearing. He had a firm jaw and high cheekbones. He smiled uncertainly and apologised for being late. He had a mellow voice that was slightly husky. Oh, it was her Prince came to life! Katie was transfixed upon the lovely sight that her eyes feasted on.

Mr Rolands: No matter. Please take a seat. I was just about to assign partners. All right, in the name of fairness, I will simply select the names at random from this bag with your names on slips of paper. There will no appeal entertained. I expect you to work and work well with your partner.

Jessie (whispering): Pssst.. Katie, what are you looking at? Have you been listening? We may not be partners. (Impatiently as Katie failed to respond) Katie!
Katie (startled out of her reverie):Huh? What?

Just then, Mr Rolands' voice rang out.

Mr Rolands: Next, Katie Turner. Your partner shall be... (he inserted his hand in to the bag for the next name).. hah, Lucas Haynes.

Katie was perplexed, who was Lucas Haynes? She looked questioningly at Jessie but she shrugged her shoulders. She waited for further instructions from Mr Rolands.

Finally, all the students were paired up and Mr Rolands gave them five minutes to find their partners and seat themselves accordingly. Jessie was paired up with a mutual acquaintance, Mark and had already located him. Katie stood there, lost for a moment as her classmates went around , looking for their partners. After a while, she regained her usual drive and decided to ask Mr Rolands for help. She reached his table at the same time as her Mr Perfect. They exchanged embarrassed looks and he gestured for her to go first.

Katie: Mr Rolands. (He looked up from the paper he was studying) Can you please tell me who Lucas Haynes is? I don't think I know him from before.
Mr Rolands: Oh, I see. He's a new boy, I think.
Lucas (smiling shyly): Actually I'm Lucas Haynes (Mr Perfect spoke up). Are you Katie Turner, my partner?
Katie (stunned): Err, yes...
Mr Rolands: Good, good. You've found each other. Take a seat please.

Lucas motioned to two empty stools to his right and Katie gingerly walked past him to take her seat. He joined her. After an awkward moment of silence, Katie, whose heart was thumping madly all this while, managed to shake off her nervousness and initiated a conversation.

Katie (with a friendly smile): So when did you move here, Lucas?
Lucas (looking relieved that she started some small talk): Oh, about a month ago, and you can call me Luke.
Katie: Well, I'm Katie, as you know. Oh, so have you settled down? Made any friends yet? It must be tough to move when you are a junior.
Lucas: My family barely finished unpacking. I've met a couple of guys so far, they've been great, helping me with stuff.
Katie (happy for him): That's great. I hope you will be happy here. Oh, Mr Rolands starting his lecture. We'll continue this conversation later.
Lucas: Right.

The class started and despite her exultation at meeting her Mr Perfect and being assigned his partner, Katie managed to conceal her tumultous emotions and assumed her normal friendly behaviour towards him during the entire class.

They bade each other goodbye when the class ended and Katie walked off with Jessie. As soon as they rounded a corner, Katie turned excitedly to Jessie.

Katie (in a stage whisper): It's him! It's him! Oh my word, he's perfect!
Jessie: Hey, cool it girl. (Grins) He's definitely hot. Lucky you.
Katie (suddenly turning forlorn): Well, he's my Prince all right. But am I his dream girl? I doubt it. He's probably attached. With his gorgoeous looks and all.
Jessie (chiding): He's new, silly. How could he be attached so soon? Even if he has a girlfriend from his old twon, they are far apart now, aren't they? Long distance relationships rarely works out.
Katie (in relieved tones): That's right. I'm so stupid! I stand a chance, don't I?
Jessie (encouragingly): Definitely!
Katie (worriedly now): But he's so gorgeous! The girls will swarm to him like bees to honey and I probably won't made an impression. And then, there's you. (looks accussingly at Jessie) Miss Pretty and Popular and single! And Lauren, so cool and sophisticated... Megan's the only safe one and that's only because he's not her type (wailing).
Jessie (laughing): Katie, there goes your wild imagination. Take it slow. First of all, I'm not interested (says firmly). He's cute but he's not my type too. You should know that. And well, he may look like your prince but make sure that he is a prince. Looks can be deceiving, you know. Lastly, you are just as gorgeous as the rest of us. You know that. What, fishing for compliments?!
Katie (sighing): I do tend to think too far, I know. Well, let's take it a day at a time. I have faith that I'll get my prince, eventually.
Jessie: That's good. Keep the faith. It's just high school. We have the rest of our lives.

On that positive note, the girls parted ways for their next class.

Meanwhile, Megan was having an encounter of her own. A not-so-happy one. She had an advanced Algebra class which was was actually a senior class but as she was on the Honor Roll, she was allowed to take some advanced classes. It was a pretty good lesson and she knew quite a few people in the class. At the end of the lesson, she gathered her notes and pens and prepared to leave the classroom. Most of the class had already exited the room, only a few people were milling about. She took a few steps and then an opened bottle slipped out of the grasp of the guy who was standing near her and as he was trying to catch it, a stream of dark red liquid splashed on her sweater. Shocked, Megan looked at the spreading stain and then at the guy who caused the accident. He had caught it firmly and had quickly capped the bottle. He was now looking at Megan with a deeply mortified face. His companion looked aghast and put up his hands to signal innocence.

Guy (apologising profusely): I'm sorry, I'm sorry. It slipped from my hands. I... (he trailed off helplessly).
Megan (regaining her composure): Well, the damage's done. What is this liquid? I just hope that the stain will come out. (She held the wet patch of sweater away from her shirt.)
Guy: It's, it's.. I don't actually know what it is. What is it, Greg? (He turned to his friend.)
Greg (stammering): Erm, I don't rightly know either. My brother asked me to identify the mixture and I was just showing Tyler here.
Tyler (contrite): I'm very sorry. I'll pay you for the sweater if it's damaged.
Megan (calmly): Oh, my first concern is that it's not toxic, is it? Since it's not yet identified.
Greg: Oh great, now that is worrying. Darn my silly brother!
Tyler (calmer now): Okay, that is another problem. Do you feel any burning sensation or anything strange?
Megan (laughing): I don't think so. Well, I gotta go guys. Please be careful with that thing. Do inform me if it's something lethal.
Tyler (concerned): But the sweater... how much does it cost? I should compensate you.
Megan (matter-of-factly): It's $90. But that's okay, I think the stain should come out. Otherwise I'll just let my friend turn it into a tie-dye or something. I'll see you around. (She started to walk away.)
Tyler (calling after her): What's your name, by the way?

But he was too late, she was already out of sight.

Greg (shaking his head): Man, $90. I could use that. Wow, can you scrape up that much if you have too? It looks brand-new.
Tyler (seriously): Well, it would wipe out my savings but it's my fault anyway.
Greg: Ya, butterfingers. Let's figure what this liquid is anyway. With your luck, it's probably toxic (laughed).

Posted at 03:23 am by chic_belle
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Tuesday, May 18, 2004

Dinner

It was 6.30pm when Megan and Katie made it to Angelo's. Lauren and Jessie were already seated not too long ago. They were greeted by a waiter who knew them and the girls gave their orders immediately as they knew what they wanted. They ordered a serving of bruschetta and garlic bread to start and their favourite dishes of chicken marsala, linguine scampi, pesto and creamy chicken fettucine to share. Half an hour later, they were happily tucked into the their meal and exchanging acounts of their day.

Katie (excitedly): Ok, ok I get to go first. You can't believe what happened today! (gave a little squeal) I met my Prince! (The other three girls exchanged knowing smiles.)
Katie (toning down a bit): It's true. Ask Jessie, she saw him too. He does look like my ideal guy.
Jessie: Well, I gotta say, he does look like what Katie always envision her Mr Perfect to be. But I warned her to go slow.

Lauren: So he's blonde and gorgeous, right. What else?

Katie (dreamily): He has the most beautiful grey eyes I'd ever seen (sighed). Oh, he has gentle manners. He was quite soft-spoken but was firm in what he had to say. (Perking up) And he's my Biology partner.
Megan (smiling): That's convenient. Who is he? How did we miss him before?
Katie: Oh, he's a new student. He'd just moved here barely a month ago.

Lauren (teasingly): And he would need lots of help, right. To settle in, I mean. How lucky is he to have you around then, our friendly little town guide. (The girls laughed and Katie blushed a little).

Megan: We expect regular updates then, Katie. And an introduction as soon as possible, after all, he should pass the gang's test.
Katie: I'll see what I can do. Just don't be mean to him, ok (pleadingly).
Jessie (indignantly): As if we would!
Megan (agreeing): Ya, Katie... how could you imply that.
Katie: Sorry, sorry. I just meant, oh, you know.
Lauren (taking pity on her): Oh, we know. Right, moving on, how was the rest of your day, Jessie?

Jessie scrunched up her nose and pouted.

Jessie: Oh, it was ever so boring. I mean, guys-wise. It's nice to be back with friends and the classes went quite well, better than expected but I didn't meet any potential dates.
Lauren (sympathetically): Oh, well neither did I.

Lauren suddenly noticed Megan's change of clothes.

Lauren (curiously): Were you not wearing a different top this morning, Meg?
Megan: Ya, I had to change. A little accident. While Katie was having her exciting experience, I had some excitement too. Luckily I kept some 'emergency' clothes in my car.
Jessie and Katie: What happened?
Megan: It's quite funny, looking back on it. While I was leaving my algebra class, a guy spilt some liquid on my sweater.
Lauren: That's terrible. Will the stain come out? What was it?
Jessie (at the same time): Oh, weren't you mad?
Megan (smiling as she remembered the incident): Initially, I was a bit mad that someone was so clumsy. But when I saw the two guys, they looked so horrified. It was sort of cute and I was more amused than angry especially when they said that it was an identified liquid. So, I'm not sure about the stain, actually, to answer you, Lauren.
Jessie (picking up on the important detail): Two guys? Were they cute?
Megan (pondering the issue): I don't know if you think they are cute. Let me just describe them. The one that spilt the liquid was tall, about 6' 2, I believe. He was lean but had an athletic physique so he was quite muscular. He had great hair, I thought. It was longish in the back, curling to his collar, had a side parting with his fringe falling across his brow and looked rumpled, like he never combed it. The color was a million shades of blonde and brown. He was rather tanned so I believe he spent lots of time outdoors, I'm assuming that might explain the streaked hair coz it looked natural. He wore these nerdy-looking glasses with plastic frames so I couldn't see his eyes clearly. They were blue-green, I think.
Katie (interjecting): What's his name?
Megan (surprised): Oh, I don't know. I was rushing off so I skipped the introductions.
Jessie (scoldingly): That is just so you, Meg. He's sounds alright but glasses? I don't know.
Lauren: Hush, you two. She's not done yet. What about the other guy? And what's the story with the mystery liquid?
Megan: His friend was shorter, about 6'. He had dark spiky short hair and was broader around the shoulders but lean too. He had mischievous blue eyes. I think they are into science and experiments, that sort of thing, coz the friend told me that his brother had given him the mystery liquid for them to identify.
Jessie: Sounds nerdy. Were they wearing their shirts tucked into their pants and had pocket calculators? (She giggled at the stereotypical image) They were seniors, I supposed since it's your advanced class.
Megan: I think so, I didn't recognise them. And nope, they weren't wearing such things. Just your average jeans and t-shirts with jackets.
Lauren: Hey it seems that we are discovering guys we've never seen before. That's good, right.
Jessie: Definitely, I need fresh blood.

They laughed and went back to finishing their meal.

Posted at 02:52 am by chic_belle
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A New Friendship

Lauren checked her reflection in the mirror. More gloss, she thought. She added a subtle shade of burgundy to her lips and stepped back to look at the whole effect. She was dressed in a knee-length satin pleated skirt which had alternate pleats of black and white, and a red off-the-shoulder frilly blouse with a black and white striped chiffon scarf around her neck. She also had on mid-calf high black boots with heels and a white stripe along the zippers. She had decided this morning that the weather was still warm enough for the relatively brief attire. It was a rather dramatic look but she wanted to make an impression. It was after school hours on Thursday and she had her drama club meeting in ten minutes. Hearing footsteps approaching the door to the lavatory, she quickly picked up her bag from the counter and walked out just before the next student entered the room.

Soon, Lauren reached the school hall where the drama club meeting was usually held. There were already many students milling around near the front of the stage, most of whom were familiar to her. She took a seat next to her friend, Miranda, and they discussed the posssible works upon which the next production would be based. Minutes later, the drama teachers, Ms Jamison and Mr Kirk walked onto the stage and called for order.

Ms Jamison (smiling): Hi all, welcome to the new school year!
Mr Kirk: And we hope that you are anticipating our next production.
Ms Jamison: We'll be putting up the show around Thanksgiving as per usual. Any guesses on what would be the next production?

The students called one suggestion after another but all proved to be inaccurate.

Mr Kirk: Okay, enough guesses. Let me just tell you what it is. Ms Jamison and I decided that we will perform an older work this time as we did something contemporary in our last production. We shall do John Webster's 'The White Devil'. Anyone familiar with it?

The drama teachers were faced with a sea of perplexed faces with some nods from various corners.

Ms Jamison: Okay.... I guess Shakespeare's plays are more familiar to you. But the decision has been made. In short, the play follows the revenge tradition and it should be an exciting one with murder galore and sex.
Mr Kirk (amusedly to one boy who was gaping): Yes, Tim, sex. Though we won't actually act it out not that there are explicit scenes. Just the notion of it. Here's the plan.

Lauren listened carefully to the instructions given. Luckily, she was familiar with the play as she had studied when she was taking a supplementary English course on 17th century drama. She decided then that she was going to be Vittoria, the mistress figure rather than Isabella, the pious wife character. Auditions were going to be held next Monday. That left her with three days to rehearse. Should be sufficient time for her if she roped in the gang to help. Katie and Jessie would be game to act out the scenes while Megan with her eye for the right pose, assumed the director's role. It wasn't going to be the first time they play-act to help out Lauren and even before that, in their early years, they had always played pretend.

Soon, the meeting was wrapped up and Lauren chatted awhile with Miranda. As they were talking, something caught her attention. Rather, it was someone. It was a guy sitting near the aisle about ten feet away from them. He was seated insouciantly in the chair, his long denim-clad legs stretched out in front of him. He was looking intensely at the stage, his head tilted slightly to one side and his arms folded on top of his abdomen. He had russet wavy hair which framed his artistic looking face well. He had a straight nose, sharp cheekbones and dark brows. Lauren couldn't make out the color of his eyes.

Miranda (curiously): What are you looking at, Lauren? (Looked in the same direction)
Lauren (musing): That guy there, he looked familiar but I can't place him.
Miranda: Oh, that's Zachary Stone. He's a junior too. He joined the club in the middle of the last production and was in the backstage crew. I think you were too busy to notice him. He changed quite a bit over the summer though.
Lauren (questioningly): What do you mean?
Miranda: Oh, he looks way better now. He was skinny and had unruly hair. He seems to have filled out that lanky frame and styled his hair. Hey, he looks good.
Lauren: Hmm, I suppose.
Miranda: Hah, don't act all cool with me, babe. I know you. You think he's hot right? (teasing Lauren)
Lauren (laughing): Okay, I confess, he's quite good-looking in that brooding hero way. He should try out for the stage. He has the looks and presence.
Miranda: I agree. So, do I have to beat you for the lead role?
Lauren (confidently): Well, there's two female lead roles so if you are going for Vittoria, yes you have to then.
Miranda (crowed): Oh great, I like the Isabella role better. That means I actually have a chance. Coz you always get the role you want (pouting).

They walked off together.

The sun was in the perfect position. Megan knelt on the ground and snapped some shots. That done, she got up, turned slightly to her left, adjusted the lens and snapped some more. As she was taking shots of the various groups of kids hanging about on the school grounds, Megan felt the presence of someone nearby, watching her. She took the camera away from her eyes and turned in that direction. It was the guy from algebra class. He was leaning against a tree and watching her. When she saw him, he smiled uncertainly and took the few steps that brought them closer.

Tyler (awkwardly): Hi. I've been looking for you. I wanted to update you about the mystery liquid.

Megan smiled and he seemed to be more at ease. Up close, Megan observed that he had an angular face with more character than prettiness. He had a strong jaw, firm mouth and his eyes were sharp and intelligent though the color was muted beneath the slightly cloudy lenses. The blonde streaks in his hair glinted under the sunlight.
Megan: So, was it toxic?
Tyler: I'm relieved to say, not at all. It was mainly glucose and food colouring. (concernedly) Were you able to get the stains out?
Megan: Yes, fortunately, I had some wonderful stain remover and it worked well. You don't have to worry about replacing it.
Tyler (let out a breath audibly): Great, that's great. I was wondering if I had to break my piggy bank. I'm Tyler, by the way. (he held out his hand)
Megan: I'm Megan.

They shook hands and Megan felt a frisson passed through her at the contact. She was startled and looked up at him. He, too, looked discomfited. They broke the hand but not the eye contact. After a few long seconds, they looked away from each other and a silence descended over them.

Tyler (breaking the silence): Erm, I don't see you in any of the other classes.
Megan: Oh, I'm actually a junior.
Tyler: I see. You must be pretty smart then. (smiled at her)
Megan (smiling back): I'll do okay. So, where's your partner in crime?
Tyler (gave a short laugh): Oh Greg, he's busy in the lab right now.
Megan (inquiringly): In the school lab?
Tyler: Ya, he's a whiz in the lab and our Chemistry teacher allows him some supervised time in it.
Megan: What about you then? Are you a Chemistry genius too?
Tyler (grinned): Nope, I'll do alright in it but I'm more into Physics.

They were getting more comfortable with each other as each moment passed and he asked Megan what she was doing.

Megan: Oh, my interest is photography. I'm a photographer for the school paper too.
Tyler (snapped his fingers): Oh, you are that Megan Ross in the credits for each photo that appeared.
Megan: Yup, that's me.
Tyler (admiringly): You have quite a talent. I really liked your work.
Megan (blushing a little): I'm quite grateful that I do have some skill to accompany the love of the job.
Tyler (assertively): Not just skill, there's a depth of emotion in the pictures that you take. That's how I can remember them so well.
Megan (rather taken aback at his assessment but pleased as well): Thank you.

They smiled at each other.

Meanwhile, in the school gym, Jessie was having her cheerleading practice. Theirs was a co-ed team and often participated in competitions. They were rehearsing their human pyramid act and it was tough work. Jessie had to be the one at the top. Luckily, she was not afraid of heights.

Head Cheerleader: Ok, that's it for today. (They all collapsed to the ground)
Traci: Boy, was that hard. How did it feel to be on top, Jessie?
Jessie: It was quite a rush. I love it (grinned). But it was scary at first, coz it was rather shaky. I thought I was going to fall once or twice (she sobered up).
Traci: Whew, glad it's not me. I hate heights.
Jessie (got up and smiling): Let's go shower. I'm sticky.

Forty minutes later, Jessie was walking to her locker to collect her homework before meeting Lauren for a ride home. She reached the locker and picked up the necessary books. Man, they were heavy. A helping hand was surely appreciated right about now. Especially strong masculine hands. She giggled at the thought, then caught herself as two girls walked past her. Must watch yourself, Jessie thought amusedly. As she was going down the flight of stairs that led to the exit to the parking lot, the books slipped out of her weakening arms and tumbled down to the bottom steps.

Jessie (muttering to herself): Great. Now all I need is an audience. How embarrassing.

Before she could reach the books, someone else did. She admired the loose-limbed swing of wide shoulders that bent down to pick up her books. He straightened up and gazed inquiringly at her. He was of average height with thickly and darkly lashed hazel eyes. His sable hair was short and neat. He had a firm jaw with a slight dent in his chin. Yummy, Jessie thought.

Jessie: Thank you. Those are my books (smiled at him).
Ryan: They are heavy, are they not (testing the weight of the thick tomes with his hands.)
Jessie: Very, that's why I lost my hold on them.
Ryan: Here you go (handing her the books).

As Jessie took the books from him, she noticed his long slender fingers which were a piano teacher's dream.

Ryan (smiling at her): Be careful.
Jessie (smiling back): I will, thank you.

She watched him walking up the stairs and let out a sigh when he disappeared from sight. Gripping the books tightly, she continued her journey to the parking lot where Lauren was probably waiting for her already.

Posted at 10:46 pm by chic_belle
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Wednesday, May 19, 2004

Sunday Tea

Lauren stood up straight and tall and delivered her lines. Jessie cut in with hers. Katie entered the scene and ...

Megan: Cut! That wasn't quite right, Lauren. More passion, you think? And your eyes, they must be alight with the fire of your conviction (rolled her eyes at her own cliche).
Lauren (reflectively): Hmmm, maybe I was too stoic.
Katie: I didn't get to act this time. Quick, next take. I'm better, I promise.
Megan (laughing) Okay, we'll take it from the top. In your places, ready?

The girls were hanging out at Lauren's, helping her rehearse for her audition tomorrow. Her family was currently out. Lauren lived in a modest two-storey cul-de-sac with her parents and her 11-year-old sister. Her dad was an architect and her mom the typical suburban housewife who volunteered at the hospital. Jessie lived across the road from her. Jessie had an older brother who was away at college and a younger sister who was in the same class as Megan's brother. Jessie's dad was an accountant and her mom works part-time at an old folks home.

Megan had driven over to Lauren's just after lunch with Katie. Like Jessie, Katie had two other siblings. Her older sister was working in Seattle and her older brother in college. Her dad was a general physician and her mom ran a pet store.

Quite often, the girls spent Sunday afternoon together but went back to have dinner with their respective families. They were in Lauren's backyard now. After a final successful run, the girls halted their rehearsal and trooped into the kitchen for tea and snacks. Megan helped Lauren to prepare the pot of tea and arrange cookies on plates while Jessie and Katie lounge on kitchen stools around the kitchen island. They were on clean-up detail. Soon, the girls were sipping tea from porcelain cups and attacking the cookies with relish. Lauren's mom had even baked them some chocolate muffins.

Jessie (between bites of muffin): So, I guess you are set for tomorrow's audition, Lauren.
Lauren (confidently): Definitely. Thanks, guys, for helping me. You are the best.
Megan (helping herself to a cookie): You'll get the part. When have you ever failed to get the part you wanted (rhetorically).
Katie: Yup. (changing the subject) Do you have the photos for the paper ready, Meg?
Megan: Yes, I developed them yesterday. I'll be bringing them round for the meeting tomorrow.
Jessie: What's the theme for the first edition of the paper, Katie?
Katie: Same old, same old. Back to school and all that. But we do have some good articles on changes in the curriculum and upcoming school events.
Lauren: How's your Prince, Katie? No updates since last week?
Katie (pensively): He was absent for Wednesday's class. And I didn't catch a glimpse of him at all outside of class.

Lauren: Cheer up, you'll see him tomorrow.
Jessie (excitedly): Speaking of guys, I saw a cute one Friday. I already told Lauren about it but let me update the two of you.
Katie (perking up): Do tell, quick.
Jessie: He's tall, dark and handsome. And has the cutest dent in his chin. He's so alpha male. There's this air of maturity about him. I also noticed his hands. He had these beautiful fingers, long and slender but strong.
Megan (musing): He sounds familiar. I think I may know him. What's his name?
Jessie (grouchily): I don't know. He went off before I could ask.
Katie (surprised): What? He didn't try to make friends with a pretty girl? Hmm, interesting.
Lauren: Not all guys are on the make, Katie.
Megan: I did get to know someone, though. Remember the guy that stained my sweater?
Lauren: Oh yeah, so what was the mystery liquid? You got the stain out?
Megan: Ya, I managed to get the stain out. Fortunately. I love that sweater, that shade of green is hard to find. It was glucose and food coloring, according to Tyler.
Katie (sounding it out): Tyler. Tyler. I like that name.
Jessie: So is he still wearing those glasses?
Megan (incredulously): I believe that he needs them to see, Jessie.
Jessie (sheepishly): Sorry. It's just that they sound ugly. He could at least change them to the nicer wire rim kinds or even contacts.
Lauren (teasingly): You are so superficial, Jessie.
Jessie (matter-of-factly): I know I am. Can't help it. I love pretty things.
Katie (chimed in): Me too. But character is more important than looks. Must keep that in mind (half talking to herself).
Lauren: Remember that with that Lucas. He sounds too pretty to be good.

Katie stuck her tongue out at Lauren.

Posted at 07:15 am by chic_belle
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Thursday, May 20, 2004

Monday Blues

The next day, Katie was counting down the seconds to Biology lesson. The bell rang and she urged Jessie to gather her things so that they could head for the lab. They bade the other two girls a hasty farewell and left. When they reached the lab, Katie was glad to see Lucas already seated. She straightened her shoulders, took a deep breath and approached him. He was dressed in dockers with a black shirt under a grey sweater and his hair was slicked back into a ponytail.

Katie (smiling brightly): Hi, Lucas.
Lucas (smiling back): Hi, Katie. Sorry I missed the last class.
Katie: No problem. You can borrow my notes. (concernedly) Why were you absent, by the way?
Lucas: I had to help my mom sort out some stuff. As you know, we are still settling in.
Katie: So, everything okay now?
Lucas: Yup, we are all set now.
Katie: How about school? Have you joined any clubs or activities?
Lucas: Well, I was in the archery club in my previous school. Do you know if there is one here?
Katie (impressed): Wow! Let me think, ya, there's one. You can go to the general office for more details. Do you want me to go with you?
Lucas: Sure. Thanks, Katie. Oh, here comes Mr Rolands.

On the other side of the school building, Megan was walking into her Algebra class. She choose a seat near the back of the class and took out her notebook and a pen. Minutes later, she saw Tyler and Greg entering the class. Tyler was in jeans, a hunter green shirt untucked and a brown jacket. Greg had on jeans, a funky Hawaiian shirt, unbuttoned, over a white T-shirt and trainers. Tyler saw her and walked to the back of the class. Greg followed him.

Tyler (smiling): Hi, Megan.
Megan (smiling back): Hi, Tyler.
Greg (with a wide grin): Hi there, so I gathered from Ty here that all's well that ends well. I'm Greg (extending his hand)
Megan (shook his hand): Hi, Greg. Pleased to meet you. I'm Megan.

Tyler sat in the next row adjacent to Megan while Greg took a seat in front of him. Greg turned to Megan.

Greg (cheekily): So, Megan, wanna play 'guess the chemical compound' with us someday? You can even bring some friends along. (Tyler groaned)
Megan (laughed): Sure, why not. But I must warn you though, Chemistry's not my forte.
Greg (winked): No problem, babe. I can show you the ropes.
Tyler: Dump the lame routine, Greg.
Greg: Do I sense the green-eyed monster?

Megan was thoroughly entertained by them. The teacher entered before Tyler could respond to that last jibe.

The bell rang at three and Jessie breathed a sigh of relief. It had been a long day and she was tired as she slept late the night before. She was too engrossed in a book and didn't notice the time and now her body was suffering from the lack of sleep. She picked up her things and made her way to her locker with a classmate who was going the same way. Her friend waved goodbye to her when she reached the locker. She turned the lock and opened the door. Just then, someone spoke right in her ear.

Jake (in a raspy voice): Hey, pretty lady.. (Jessie was startled, she turned and saw him)
Jessie (annoyed): Jake! Don't you have anything better to do?! (slapped his arm repeatedly with both hands)
Jake (evading her blows and laughing): Hey, stop that. Okay, okay, I apologise.

Jessie stopped slapping his arm and stood with arms akimbo. She regarded him thoughtfully. They saw very little of Jake over the summer as he went away with his family. He was tanned, his cropped dark brown hair sported glints of gold, probably from spending time in the sun. His blue-grey eyes twinkling at her as he stood tall, dressed in faded jeans with a checked shirt over a light blue T-shirt.

Jake (grinning): So, what's up with the gang?
Jessie: Nothing much. No excitement as yet except for Katie. She met a new guy.
Jake (groaning): Oh no, is she in her infatuated phase now?
Jessie (glared at him): Don't be mean! This time, she has reason. He looked like her Mr. Perfect.
Jake: Ok, ok. She doesn't get excited over guys that much but I still remember the last time she did. She went around mooning over him. Was too much for me (grimaced).
Jessie (teasingly): That's coz it wasn't you, right? Your ego took a beating. After all, her one big crush before that was on you.

Jake snorted. Jessie deposited her books and closed the locker.

Jessie: So, how's being a senior?
Jake (matter-of-fact): Pretty much the same. No big deal. Just the excitement of finals and SATs and college looming over you.
Jessie: So, have you decide where to go?
Jake: Not quite. Still vacillating between a few choices. Where's the gang? I haven't seen them since I returned from my trip.
Jessie: I thought you met Meg.
Jake: Yeah, we had dinner two weeks ago. But not since then. And I haven't seen Lauren or Katie.
Jessie: Well, we aren't meeting after school today. Meg and Katie have their newspaper meeting and Lauren has auditions. I'm heading for home now. (fluttering her lashes at him) Wanna give me a ride?
Jake (complaining): Why don't you get a car? You can't always get a ride, you know.
Jessie (smugly): Well, so far I have. So there.

Backstage, Lauren took a deep breath. It was her turn next. A few minutes later, she was called to go onstage. She walked out confidently. Ten minutes later, she took a bow.

Ms Jamison (smiling): Excellent, Lauren. As usual.
Mr Kirk: Thank you. Results out on Wednesday.

Lauren exited gracefully. She gave a thumbs-up to Miranda who was waithing for her turn and wished her luck. She picked up her bag and left the hall. As she walked out the door, someone was approaching it. She saw Zach strolled past her into the hall. He looked sombre and as his gaze was focused straight ahead, she assumed he didn't see her. Well, whatever. Not that they were acquainted anyway. He looked good, though. He was dressed in an untucked black long-sleeved shirt over black jeans with a denim jacket.

Lucas was walking Katie over to the newsroom in return for her accompanying him to the general office. They chatted amiably along the way, getting to know each other. Katie noticed that Lucas was gentleman enough to shorten his long strides to match her slightly slower pace. As they rounded a corner, Katie saw Megan approaching from the opposite direction. She stopped walking and waved.

Katie: Hey, Meg.
Megan (seeing her): Hi, Katie. (saw that she wasn't alone) And friend. (smiled)
Lucas (smiled and nodded his head): Hi.
Katie: Right. Meg, this is my Biology partner, Lucas. He's new in town. Lucas, this is my oldest and dearest friend, Megan.

They shook hands and exchanged pleasantries. Meg excused herself to enter the newsroom which was a few feet away while Katie said her goodbye to Lucas.

Katie (entering the newsroom and seeking out Megan): So, what do you think? (she beamed)
Megan (consideringly): He's cute. Good manners, firm handshake. But really, Katie. I need to know more before I can make a proper assessment.
Katie: Oh, I know, I know. Well, let's see if that can be arranged.

Mutual acquaintances approached them and they were soon caught up in other matters.

Posted at 07:12 am by chic_belle
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Saturday, May 22, 2004

Audition Results

Lauren tried to compose herself. She was outwardly calm but her emotions were in turmoil. She walked coolly to the board where a group of drama club members was already clustered around. She smiled and greeted some of them and simply waited for the crowd to disperse. It was undignified to elbow one's way to the front, she thought. Minutes later, she was rewarded for her patience. Luckily, nobody spoiled the moment by telling her what part she had gotten. She went nearer and yes, that's her name beside Vittoria. She was squealing with glee inside but only a wide smile betrayed her emotions externally. Looking down the list, she spied an interesting fact. The male lead was to be played by Zachary Stone. She wondered how good his perfomance was. And if they had any chemistry together sice they were supposed to be paramours. Well, guess she had to wait till tomorrow's meeting. She was startled out of her thoughts by friends who congratulated her.

It was after school. Megan had to drop some things off at her locker before she went exploring for great sights to take pictures of. She did this at least once a week when she had no other commitments. She would just drive or walk around till she found the perfect shots. As she was approaching her locker, she heard someone called out to her.

Ryan: Hey, Meg!

Megan halted, turned and saw him. He was smiling widely and looked happy. He moved easily and with confidence and was soon right in front of her. She smiled in return.

Megan: Hi, Ryan. What's up?
Ryan: My future. It's looking bright.
Megan (interestedly): That's great. Explain.
Ryan: I'm going on that sponsored art trip to Europe next summer (he grinned).
Megan (beaming): Oh, that's stupendous! Congratulations! Come here, let me give you a hug!

He flung open his arms and she went into them and they hugged hard, briefly. They broke the embrace but he kept his arm around her waist. Megan and Ryan became friends two years ago after she chanced upon him on one of her photographic rambles. He was painting by the creek in the nature reserve outside of town. Despite both of them being the reserved type, they sensed a sort of kindred spirit in each other and slid easily into friendship. It helped that they were both artists of a sort, she with her camera and he with his brushes and canvas. Megan thought him talented and believed he would go far. They had many conversations about things that concerned them both like lighting and angles. Megan regarded him as a brother and she thought he felt the same fraternal way about her. Although they attended the same school, she didn't encounter him very often and he wasn't known to the gang simply because there never was an opportunity to introduce him to them. She also knew that he wasn't very social and the gang could be overwhelming.

Meg: But how do you know so soon? And how are you going to wait that long? It's almost a year away.
Ryan (sheepishly): Well, my application reached them too late for this summer's trip but they granted me an interview anyway. After viewing my portfolio, they told me that they would inform me once they decided. They've just notified me on Monday. I hoped the year will pass by very quickly but I think I can bear it.
Meg: Yup, just focus on expanding that portfolio. I'm waiting for the invitation to your future exhibition.
Ryan (turned sombre): Well, I hope it'll happened one day. Thanks, Meg. For believing in me.
Meg (trying to lighten him up): Hey, come on, Ry. It will happen. Even if I have to built the gallery myself and commission you to put up the exhibition.

He laughed and they exchanged smiles. Suddenly,

Jessie (shyly): Hi, Meg.
Megan (surprised): Hi, Jessie (smiled at her).
Jessie (smiling): I'm on the way to my locker. Thought I say , "hi" and there you are.
Megan:You have good timing. Here I am.

Megan became aware that Ryan's arm was still around her and that Jessie was probably hiding her curiousity.

Megan (slightly abashed): Oh, Ryan. This is my very good friend, Jessie. I'd told you about her and the gang, remember? (He nodded, unsmilingly) Jessie, this is Ryan.
Jessie: Hello, Ryan. Nice to meet you (she held out her hand).

Ryan took his arm away from Megan's waist to shake hands. He gave a cool smile and said hello. Jessie initiated a conversation with him but he responded discouragingly by giving mono-syllabic answers. She gave up and turned to Megan. He shifted uncomfortably as Megan and Jessie talked. Minutes later, Jessie departed. Megan thought he behaved rather indifferently when it was clear that Jessie wanted to get to know him better.

Megan (narrowed her eyes at him): That wasn't very friendly. What's going on?
Ryan (muttering): I'm just not comfortable with people, you know that. Especially the cheerleader type.
Megan (admonishingly): What's wrong with cheerleaders? And she's my friend. She's very nice.
Ryan (apologetically): I'm sorry, Meg. I'm just not good with making friends, especially the mainstream, popular kind. It's not her, it's me.
Megan (raised her eyebrows): So now, you are implying I'm not mainstream. I'm not sure if that's complimentary.
Ryan (sighing): Hell, I'm making a right hash of this. No, you are different, that's all. I just, I dunno, I just clammed up when talking to new people... (he looked pleadingly at her to understand).
Megan (softening): Okay, I guess I do understand. I'm not that great at making new acquaintances too.
Ryan (smiling in relief): You are the best. What are your plans for now?
Megan: I'm going in search of photo-worthy sights.
Ryan: Need some expert company?
Megan: Sure, why not. It's been some time since we've had a good chat.
Ryan (pulling her along): Let's go then.
Megan (protested laughingly): Wait. I have to go to my locker.

Posted at 03:48 am by chic_belle
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