The Messy Life Of A Clean Freak

© Ivanna Quarshie-Halm

The Messy Life of A Clean Freak

Chapter 1

Were my eyes deceiving me or was I really seeing Joy? My best friend in the whole world, who I thought I lost touch with. I could not believe it even for a millisecond, she looked completely different and nothing like the girl I had known all these years. She looked much better in fact. In terms of the excitement out of being with my best friend again, I was getting double portion, because beside Joy was a really cute guy. This guy was just fishing for all the butterflies which had risen from the foundation of my stomach. How could I help it but to just stand there in amounting amazement? I stopped being able to speak as he came closer to me. “Hi, I’m Sam and you are Sarah” I smiled, said ‘hello gorgeous’ in my head and stared. He reacted with the same energy and in a minute he was gone. Joy hugged me and I totally forgot his existence for a collection of minutes.

As the cutie said my name is Sarah Kim Smith. This is my story from my secondary school life to womanhood, though not in its entirety. The day of when I was reconnected with my past was sunny and cloudy.

Miss Glitch was grouchy for what seemed like an hour. You should correct yourself right now for thinking her love for maths was able to keep her in high spirits. Joy kept making faces behind her back and I could not control the bubbling glee within me. When she stood in front of me expressing that she was interested in the cause, I put on a straight face and placed my hands on my desk. She turned to the front and continued teaching the class.

Three hours later at home, I was on the family phone with Joy and I heard loudly, “Sarah there are other people in the house who wish to use the phone, you can talk to Joy at school!” “Sorry Joy we have to talk tomorrow” I followed my mum’s order. “Ok then bye” Joy hung up.

My thoughts of Sam were anything but exaggeration. They continued to make me feel as if in constant shock. As the week went on, it progressively changed and not in a good way, much much worse, why? He became more irresistible and cleverly sweet, with the few words he spoke to me. At least it came across that way as fewer words were returned to him. Sam developed the stronger ability to melt and form butterflies that were growing inside my stomach. To you, it sounds easy but for me it was torturous. I just couldn’t handle it and neither would any of you. He was in most of my classes. He would always sit near me as Joy was our closest friend but she was not in all of our classes. Aside from that I just could not object.

Chapter 2

I have liked Sam for almost two weeks now and the way he made an impression on me, still twirls me around. I know if I continue to say nothing, I will regret the manner it spurts out of me later. Joy told me not to tell Sam anything but by the end of 5th period I could not hold it in any longer. I did it and straightaway I told Joy who seemed completely fine with it. Thankfully Sam felt the same way.

(Writer) In spite of Sarah’s happiness betrayal would soon come hitting on her door. It was a feeling she could not have known before the upcoming events.

Just in case you have not figured it out I am the writer. I will be Sarah’s eyes and ears, as she is not going to be everywhere you are at the same time.

(Me) “Sarah, there is this guy I like in school, what do I do?” Joy asked for advice. “Just wait until you can know he feels the same way” I answered her. “How?” Joy wanted clarification. “When he makes you feel how Sam made me feel, you will know” I tried to specify. “Thanks Sarah” Joy said. “No problem”, I smiled.

(Writer) Joy Hope felt she could not wait for the advised period of time to come clean. As she felt she had already taken too long, she sent a text to Sam to meet her near a room behind the main office.

As soon as students were dismissed, Joy dashed off to where she thought Sam would find her easily. “Hey J, is everything alright?” Sam asked Joy. “Yeah, I just want to speak to you about something face to face” Joy said. Sam felt his phone vibrate and he checked what he was being notified on. Sam started to laugh “Sam what’s so funny?” Joy asked. “My cousin just sent me this link to an article. A guy broke up with a girl just before they were about to move in because she told him she wants to buy a cat and he is scared of cats. There’s even a video about it” Sam put his phone in front of them so they could watch.

After 2 minutes they began to laugh uncontrollably. When it was over “I don’t really like cats myself but how can he be such a wimp and break up with her?” Joy couldn’t believe. “Yeah if we were a couple I would just use you as a shield from the cat” Sam said. “What?” Joy responded. “Kidding, when it’s coming close I will jump in for you” Sam declared. Sarah was walking towards them and smiling because she saw Sam. “Then you would be like my knight in shining armour” Joy spoke. “What’s going on here? You are her what?” Sarah required. “I showed Joy a video on a funny article my cousin sent me” Sam told Sarah. “That’s why you’re her knight in shining armour?” Sarah wondered. “No we were talking about how I would save her if..” “Can I talk to you in private Joy?” Sarah cut him off. The girls went away to talk.

(Me) “Joy, you know that I like Sam, how could you engage in an inappropriate joke like that?” I did not appreciate. “Sam wanted to show me and he made a joke. He didn’t think of it as anything” Joy defended her male friend. “So should you encourage him, knowing that’s the case?” Sarah required. “I didn’t encourage him but the video was funny and it led to that. It was just a joke” Joy believed. “No it’s an offence, how could you do that to me?” I was appalled. “I haven’t done anything to you” Joy told me. “No but how can I trust that you wouldn’t, after hearing that? That is not what a best friend is supposed to do” I thought. “Sarah..” “ Leave me alone, backstabber” I left and walked home, because it was the end of the day.

(Writer) 2 days after, Joy again tried to talk to Sarah at lunch time in school but Sarah chose not to hear her out. Sam started to think about the phone incident. He wished he had said to Sarah what he told Joy. At one point when Sam saw Sarah, she smiled but did not walk over to him.

Then at the beginning of the lunch break Sam saw Sarah again. He tried to wave at her in the lunch hall but she sat at a different table facing away from him. Then just before the end of lunch, he saw her walk out, quickly tidied away and went after her.

“Sarah, please can I ask you something?” Sam questioned. “I can’t help you” Sarah held back her friendliness. “You can but first you have to listen” Sam said. “What do you want?” Sarah responded. “What is the first thing you noticed about me that you liked?” Sam asked. “I don’t know” Sarah replied. “The first thing I noticed about you that I liked was your amazing smile. I live to see it everyday. I want to make you smile before school, in school and after school” Sam stated. “Well you can’t because you want to spend more time with Joy. Which I can’t blame you for because she’s a great girl” Sarah knew. “Yeah but I like you and I want to be there when you smile” he responded. “So what was that about on your phone the other day?” Sarah inquired. “My cousin sent me an article about a man who broke up with a lady because she wanted to buy a cat for their apartment” Sam made her know. “I see” Sarah said. It’s really funny and I’d love to show you if I can take you out somewhere to eat” Sam offered. “Do you really like me?” Sarah asked. “If I say yes you have to say yes” Sam commanded. “Ok” Sarah accepted. “Yes” he stuck to his promise. “Yes” she obeyed. “We can go to Weston’s if it’s okay with you” Sam wondered. “ Yeah” Sarah allowed.

Chapter 3

(Me) Sam just asked me out, I’m so excited! I’m only sharing it with you and not someone beginning with J. I know she is my best friend but I have my boundaries. It’s home-time now so I’m walking there. I stop because I hear Sam calling my name. “Hold on Sarah, we didn’t decide on a time” Sam pointed out. “6:45?”I posed. “Sure, are you going home?” Sam required. “Yeah, you?” I wondered. “ Not yet, the head wants to see me” Sam let me know. “Ok, see you later” I continued walking.

(Writer) Sam went to the head-teacher’s office, knocked and waited. After a minute, he tried again and no response was received. Then another member of staff saw him, “Sam, Mr Johnson said he will catch up with you sometime during the week” Mr Rayne alerted him. “Ok, thanks sir” Sam went towards the school entrance when Joy saw him. “Sam, have you talked to Sarah this afternoon?” Joy enquired. “Yeah” Sam said. “Did she not say anything about me?” Joy investigated. “Nope” Sam replied. “I thought you would have tried to talk to her for me. I really miss her and I need a chocolate bun to make me feel better” Joy said. “Canteen closed 20 minutes ago” Sam brought back to her memory. “Not from here, Orlando’s” Joy meant. “Oh I haven’t actually really been there” Sam confessed. “You told me your mum took you there, for a treat” Joy remembered. “Something came up so we left, can I join you?” Sam wondered. “I don’t think it’s a good idea” Joy declined. “Please Joy, I can see you feel upset and could use the company” Sam presumed. “You don’t have anything on?” Joy checked. “Not for now, let’s go” Sam and Joy walked to the breakfast shop 20 minutes from the school.

(Me) I got home at 4:15 pm and decided what I’m going to wear for my date with Sam. Now I’m going to do some tidying up. It has to be done before my mum comes back from work and Tom comes from his club. Let me do another introduction, Tom is my younger brother and let’s just say it’s peaceful when he’s not at home. My mum’s called Charlotte but we don’t live with our dad because our parents are separated. They can’t handle living together. Anyway leave me for now to do the tidying up. I will come back to you when my mum is back from work.

(Writer) Joy Hope and the first good friend that she secured since she moved to Summerfield had only settled in the breakfast shop. Their afternoon snack had been in front of them for not more than 10 minutes. “Joy, sorry I didn’t let you finish with what you had to tell me earlier” Sam acknowledged. “MMM..MM..MM not right now, getting ready to tuck into this bun” Joy conveyed. You might have thought that she was trying to stall giving her secret but you’d be wrong. According to her, she had all the time that evening. “So how long do you reckon you would last with that?” Sam Jones wanted to challenge her. “45 minutes” Joy suggested. “Let’s see if you will top that” Sam started to time her.

(Me) Hiya! I have just double checked that everywhere in the house is spic and span(very clean ). I’m gonna get dressed and my mum should be inside the house.

6:10pm I hear my mum’s singing and her placing of her bag to check the mail. I’m going to greet her now.

“Hi mum, welcome back” I spoke to let her know I’m aware of her arrival. She’s not responding and weirdly I hear her muffling “Sarah get off the phone, there are other people in the house” which is normally what I make her say. “Mum, come back to the house” I tried to bring her attention. “Sarah, did you hear me from upstairs?” Mrs Smith(my mum) beseeched. “No, I’ve been standing next to you for almost 5 minutes” I declared. “Normally, you would be on the phone to Joy, when did you finish?” I was enquired. “I haven’t talked to her” I informed my mum. “Is everything okay?” My mum tried to investigate. “Yeah just letting you know I will be leaving to go out with Sam in like 5 minutes” I provided details about my evening. “Okay just keep in mind the latest time you have to be back” my mum reminded me, “I know mum, going to get my bag and I’m off” I said. “Okay darling” she kissed my cheek with hers.

(Writer) Joy had finished her bun by 6:50pm but the final seconds were still being counted. “7..6..5..4..3..2...1” Sam’s timer blurted in a shrilly manner. “That was delicious but its now time to be serious. This is something I have been thinking about in stages. Maybe I haven’t said it up till now because I had two states of mind. One that I’ve been living in Summerfield and been in this school for almost four years. We became friends and that’s when I felt settled. On the other hand I now feel somewhat different” Joy said.

Chapter 4

(Writer) By this time Sarah was worried about Sam because she was 10 minutes late but she was ready to get off the bus at the next stop.

3 minutes later she got off and tried to walk briskly to not annoy Sam since she didn’t know how he felt about timekeeping. She was getting close to the restaurant Sam invited her to. Conveniently it was where Joy was with Sam. She went to the restaurant but didn’t see Sam so she decided to go to Orlando’s to buy a drink. She briefly scanned the scenery and saw Joy, who she ignored.

Charlotte Smith’s oldest child, bought the drink and started to walk to the entrance and saw Sam. “Sam, what are you doing here? Aren’t we supposed to be on our date?” Sarah probed. “Oh, sorry Sarah I haven’t even been home yet” Sarah was told the truth. “So instead of remembering that you asked me out, you’re out with Joy, who has chosen not to remember she is supposed to be my best friend and that I like you” Sarah pointed out. “You haven’t even been talking to me for two days” Joy stressed. “You can decide to use that against me and be happy we’re not talking, thanks a lot” Sarah claimed. “ I..I can explain” Joy stuttered. “Go on then” she waited and Joy didn’t speak. “Oh I thought you could explain” Sarah stormed out. As she made her way for the bus, her eyes filled with tears gradually.

(Me) When I reached home, I rested my head on the arm of the couch and felt something on my face. Then I got up to look in the mirror, “mum look at what Tom’s felt tips have done to my face!” I yelled. “Oh honey, what’s the matter?” My mum clearly didn’t hear or see me, “I just told you” I emphasized. “No, you’re crying” my mum brushed my face. “So, can you not see the bigger problem?” I wondered and my mum wiped my eyes. “Look if you don’t even care about what is important, forget it” I started to rush out. “Sarah, just come back, what is wrong? I want you to tell me” My mum pressured me. “I can’t..” I stated. “You have to” I was directed. “I can’t even believe it happened” I replied. “Honey talk to me” I was prompted. I let it all out and it didn’t make me feel better. Instead it made it seem more real.

10 minutes later, “oh honey I’m sorry” my mum commented. “You haven’t done anything” I answered. “I’m sorry, I can’t relate fully. I know it is painful, but you must not let this keep you down. Everything will be fine ok” my mum simply advised me. I went upstairs to wash my face and went to bed.

The next day I tried with all my might, strength and power to not let yesterday keep me from working hard in my subjects. But when I saw Joy, I felt annoyed as well as sad because I really like Sam. It’s all ruined. Let me be by myself for a while.

Good evening, I’m at home and just got up from a nap. I’m holding my sorrows, as I walk downstairs. I saw my mum and I sat by her, “hey Sarah what are you up to this evening?” My mum required. “Will be hating Joy till about 8:30pm then it will be Sam” I said. “Sarah, she is your best friend, don’t say that again” my mum told me off. “Mum you don’t get it, you said yesterday. Sam was so charming and sweet and I was counting the days till he asked me out. Then I see him with Joy acting as if they’re going out when she knew I liked him. A best friend shouldn’t do that” I summarised. “One reason we came to Summerfield is that you reconcile with Joy. I understand how you feel darling and they have no right to have done that to you. Though am not completely in favour of you saying that, I trust you to make good choices. I also want to know I can trust you to let this go because it’s not worth wrecking your friendship. Believe me, ok?” My hair was brushed from my face. “Okay I will call her” I acted maturely and went for the phone.

I dialled her home number and her mum picked up the phone “hi Mrs Hope, please can I speak to Joy?” I requested. “Oh, sorry dear she’s not in..hold on dear” “Sarah?” she remarked. “Joy” I called her name. “Please don’t even talk this is my fault completely. Please forgive me” Joy pleaded. “I just did” I made a statement. “Good, now you and Sam can start afresh” I knew what she meant. “No, I don’t want to be into him anymore, I’m letting him go” I reported. “Are you sure?” Joy asked. “Yeah” I said. “Well, I’m still sorry” Joy apologized again. “It’s ok, so to repair lost time you can come round and sleepover” I suggested. “Sure that sounds like fun, my mum will bring me in a little while” Joy accepted. I got everything ready including nail polish and glitter.

The time departed so quickly and we had a really fun time.

When it became Monday and we all appeared in school, Joy and I greeted one another. Then we admired each other’s nails, more Joy than me as I was fretting we would get caught. “Sarah, take pride in your nails or you might as well not have done it” Joy made me wish. “Yeah I prefer that, we will get into trouble” I was anxious. “Don’t worry, we can’t get into trouble” Joy seemed relaxed as if she was sitting on two recliners. “Are you sure?” I had to check. “Yes, you worry too much” Joy diminished her best friend’s consequential thinking. “I need to because I hate getting into trouble” I explained. “We won’t” I followed Joy. My heart started to beat as Miss Ark, the head of year 7 approached us. “Oh. Beautiful nails girls” Miss Ark admired and Joy smiled. “Now come with me and let’s take it off” Joy made a change in her facial expression. She walked us to the door of the girl’s toilets and left. “We can’t get into trouble” I mimicked some of her words. Joy opened the door for me and she came after.

(Writer) 15 minutes later, I sighed for the 4th time after taking the nail polish off one hand. “Hey I know what can make it better. We can make a club and use it as an excuse to wear this beautiful nail polish” I looked at my other hand before removing the polish. “Sarah?” Joy called not that I was paying much attention to her words but I heard it. “Yeah” I was in daze. “Didn’t you like that idea?” She wanted to know. “Yeah, yeah” I started intently at my hand. “What idea did I suggest?” Joy tried to test me. “That we should invent a club where we can wear the nail polish” I quoted Joy. “Wow I forgot that you were a good listener” Joy mentioned. “But how will we make it happen?” I questioned. “Preparation my friend, so can we start after school?” Joy adjured. “No” I shook my head and smiled. The bell rang and we headed for class.

So we went to Joy’s house after school and started on Joy’s idea. We put together our own website and made glitter nail designs, in between filling ourselves with snacks. After Joy logged on to Flashform chat, I noticed Joy’s slightly younger cousin had a very nice display picture. I wanted to go and pat her dog, Humphrey. However a thought stopped me, how were we going to get permission giving that we were made to take it off. “Sarah, what’s wrong?” Joy invited me to unload as I had a puzzled look on my face. Unexpectedly, out of nowhere I heard “aaaahhh!!” I turned to living mode and ran to my best friend’s rescue. “What’s the matter Joy?” I enquired. “We have our first club member!” Joy was way too enthusiastic. “So that’s why you decided to frighten me?” I asked. “Can’t you see? This is absolutely great!” I was getting freaked out. “Joy, you really need to calm down” I held her. “I can’t! I can’t wait to start this brilliant idea with our first member” Joy obviously couldn’t keep her joy in. “Joy go and get a glass of water right now and don’t come till you have calmed down” I ordered.

(Writer) Miss Smith was able to relax from the hysterical excitement around Miss Hope for 5 minutes. When she returned to the living room, Miss Smith hoped it had helped. “Are you feeling better?” Sarah hoped. “I was fine before” Miss Smith used eye contact to force Joy to say what she wanted. “I’m ok now but I want you to tell me what was wrong before” Joy enjoined. “I was thinking how will we get permission to have the club since Miss Ark is not a big fan” Sarah highlighted. “I know you are right but if we just sort ourselves out we can show that we can raise funds for the school” Joy had thought of. “Oh that is clever, so what do we do now?” Joy was enquired. “Jay is going to bring stationery and glitter notebooks so now we can just think of who we will get to join and a plan of action. You get pens from my room and I will get paper” Joy instructed. Sarah went home after.

(Me) The minute I stepped into my room, I felt weird. Nothing was absent in my room, still it felt lonely. I looked around and I discovered that my makeup bag was slightly open so I assessed it. I saw my lipstick was almost fully used. I just remembered buying a new one last week. I walked downstairs to get water and I was disgusted, “Tom is that my makeup ..All over your face?” I tried to control my emotions to keep me from pushing him but then he gave me a cheesy smile. “You are so annoying, give me that!” I snatched it back. Why can’t he be like other silly brothers?

The next day I had German, art, maths and science. To my own surprise and Joy’s gloating the school’s art consultant fully approved the idea of our club. I said to her I was worried for nothing before she could say she told me so. After school I trailed off with Joy to her house to meet Jay and launch our new invention. While there I met Jay’s mum and she is as pretty as Mrs Hope.

(Writer) In the meantime, when Sarah was getting acquainted with Joy’s aunt, Jay was being sneaky in the living room. Charlotte Smith (Sarah’s mother) had been a friend to Mrs Heather Hope. Just easing you in slowly. Heather Hope saw her sister off as Jay was going to stay with her cousin for the night.

Joy and Sarah came back into the living room at 5:05pm and saw Joy’s laptop on her cousin’s lap. “Jay, what are you doing?” Joy examined what ideas had popped into her mind. “Just making a few changes” Jay grinned. “ Only a few? You’ve ruined our whole website” Joy drew a conclusion. ”Please, trust me I have made it better” Jay thought. “In what way?” Joy needed more detail. “Now, it’s not a pathetic sissy girl club” Jay insulted Joy’s idea. “But you said you wanted to join our club and you like our idea” Joy was confused. Miss Smith watched and waited for them to settle their dispute. “Yeah I like your idea of having a club but that’s as far as my interest goes” Jay spoke. “So you can make your own club” Joy stated. “Not in my school so that’s why I said I liked it so I could join and improve it” Jay confessed. “We haven’t even started it yet and you are already trying to change it?” Sarah tried her hardest not to interrupt. She chose to believe that it would stop it escalating, despite her not feeling sure if she would later be accused of not standing up for her. “If you want to start it, you might as well start it right” Jay alleged. “There is nothing wrong with my theme” Joy was feeling put down. “ Ok, you keep telling yourself that” Jay was not going easy on her older cousin. “I will because it’s the truth” Joy believed. “The only thing that is true is you have used a rubbish idea to compensate for a good idea. This is the lamest idea and the theme makes it worse. You can keep deceiving yourself, we all know that no one will come to your club but they’ll love mine” Joy started to cry. “Joy come on let’s go” Miss Smith started comforting her.

The cousin who was suffocated by her cousin’s careless discourtesy, went to get two packs of crisps. Tom’s sister was given one and they started to go to Joy’s room. “Thanks” Jay said. “For what?” Joy couldn’t talk much. “Wait that’s my favourite flavour” Jay claimed. “Mine too, I took the last one” the two friends continued moving.

(Me) I was only allowed to be there for another hour but I wanted to cheer Joy up. My best friend gesture didn’t qualify as a good reason to delay going home by an hour. So when I got home I was grounded.

3 hours successive to the reveal of Jay’s plan I was told about a church barbecue. “That sounds great. I wish I can go” I answered. “You are. We are all going” my mum announced. “I’m grounded though” I reminded her. “Oh Sarah don’t be silly. You know it means you’re not allowed to go anywhere other than school by yourself. You will go. You just won’t see Joy apart from at school” mum told me. “Yes mum. That sounds fair” I agreed.

It came to Saturday quickly and we were getting ready to leave for the barbecue.

2pm- “Hi Joy, are you having a good time?” I wondered. “Yeah, this is great” Joy smiled. “So you are feeling much better?” I wanted to make sure. “Yeah, tons and I’ll be even better, when I..” “hey” I realised. “Oh I know you love me and are happy to let me eat the rest of your burger “ Joy accepted. “Don’t worry I’m not sad, but I’m happy to say you are a slob” I joked. “Oh” Joy moaned. I laughed and walked away.

3:10pm I was having fun until.. “Tom? Why did you do that?” The filthy mutt got barbecue sauce all over me. Tom laughed. “Mum!” I shouted. “Oh honey what happened?” My mum came over. “I think it’s obvious” I asseverated. “Tom that’s not funny. We will talk later but now we need to get you cleaned up. Come on” my mother led me away.

Three hours after the incident, we left the event. When we had ended up at home I immediately had to excuse my mother and 7 year old brother. I walked to the hall way. I pressed my ear against the door then Joy called me so I slithered away from the door, “hey, can you call me later please? Tom’s about to get into trouble for earlier” I informed Joy Hope. “Ok” I continued attempting to listen. I thought Joy calling me kept me from being a witness to how Tom was being told off, but it didn’t have any effect. All I managed to get was “she played with my cheeks..I hate that!” Everything became quiet till Tom came to the door.

“Sorry” Tom uttered so I was unsure whether he really meant it. I had no time to figure it out as my mother has called me. I walked calmly to the living room and sat down. “Sarah, why did you have to touch his cheeks?” Mum wanted to know. “I was only teasing him” I gave a response. “That’s fine and I expect that but you just have to be mindful of what you do ok?” I understood. “Ok mum” I left her then sent a text to Joy letting her know she can call me. I immediately felt a reply coming through that she’s eating and will talk to me tomorrow. We had dinner around 9 and I slept at 10.

Good morning. This morning I’m so excited, do you know why? Joy came up with a fabulous idea. I woke up at the feel of buzzing from my phone and when I picked the call she started screaming extremely loudly. I asked her why does she do that, then I found out why and I joined in. At the end of next week (Saturday actually) Joy says we should throw a party to celebrate the launch of our club. You might be wondering, what is great about that? Well I will not be having my sweet 16 for another 3 years so I’m gonna make sure I have a great time. Mum told us to stop shouting so we kept our conversation low key.

After I stopped being Joy, I carried on like normal. At half 12 when mum was dishing out our food, I told her about the party. It was that moment when it felt like my cheerful players were being kicked off the team. “But mum this is going to be amazing, why can’t I go to the party?” I found out. “You know it’s because you’re grounded” she reminded me. “No mum it’s next week” I reinforced. “And so?” My mum continued. “Oh mum please let me go, I won’t ask you to let me see her after this” I promised. “ No” she turned it down. “Please mum” I pleaded. “Are you prepared to stick to your promise?” I had to assure her. “Yes mum, please” I confirmed. “Well, it’s you that made this deal so I’m holding you to that and you still must not come late, understand?” I was given 2 conditions, “yes absolutely. So I can go?” I hoped. “Yes” she allowed. “But after this you are home the whole time” she stressed. “Yes I understand, so after school tomorrow, can I go to Joy’s house to discuss it?” I wanted. “No, you are only allowed to go to the party, everything you must do has to be in school” my mum ended the pleading. “Yes mum” I was again excited and I hugged her.

So 2 days from then we talked about the party and made the flyer to hand out to girls in our class. Other girls that were not in our class but our year group were also given some. We hadn’t seen Sam for a while but that didn’t matter because we were going to have fun on Saturday.

There was another day that week which any teenager would want again and again. We were told that our teachers were going to be on other assignments so we didn’t have to come to school. We hoped it would be enough to make them never want to give us homework again. Joy and I took the opportunity to buy the party supplies and yes I did get my mum’s permission before I’m accused as an outlaw. When we were done we took the stuff to Joy’s house since that was gonna be the party venue. Joy’s mum made chicken and rice which was tasty and spicy. Mrs Hope is a great cook. I made sure I left straight after when we decided we will talk more about everything on the phone.

The day before the party came quick. Not only that but it was also Friday night at 7:15pm. Dinner was ready and we came together as a family.

“You better hope I don’t throw up” Tom spoke, “why would you?” I inquired. “From this food. It was disgusting” Tom commented. “I made it dear” my mum owned up. “Oh, I thought Sarah made it” Tom claimed. “If you really thought that I made it, why did you lick MY plate clean?” I saw. “If I didn’t eat it, mum would have got angry and told me off” I figured that it was most likely a lie. “If you thought that and it would have made you not eat it, I couldn’t have forced you. It would have just been your problem” mum mentioned. “Yeah, well I really did like it mummy” Tom supposed. “Well when you decide whether you liked it or not, wash your plate” mum got up. “No, don’t worry mum, I’ll do them” I offered. “Did you just offer voluntarily to do the dishes?” Mum seemed like she wanted to fake faint. “Yeah” I was happy with. “All the dishes?” Mum requested. “Yeah” I affirmed. “Ok what’s going on?” She looked worried. “Nothing, I just wanna help you out” I continued offering my service. “And...” mum didn’t believe me. “The party’s tomorrow” I sneakily brought in. “Ah, well, thanks hun” my mum took my offer as genuine and left her plate. In 10 short strides, I landed in the kitchen, in front of the sink and started.

Twenty minutes later, “ok sweetie goodnight” she came to the kitchen to announce her departure. “ Goodnight mum” I said. “All the dishes?” My mum added to make it 3 times. “Yes mum” I stated and sighed in my mind. She kissed me on the cheek with hers. When I was done, Joy text me and we were replying to each other into the early morning before we slept.

Chapter 5

The day of the party. As I woke up I checked the time and freaked that it was 11am (one hour ahead of the party). So I rushed out of bed and made it. Then I left my room to go to the bathroom when my stupid brother got in first.

Can you believe he spent 40 minutes in there? So annoying! I got in at 11:50am and got out at 12:20pm. I went to get my outfit which Mrs Hope sewed for Joy and I. I freaked out even more when I went to check everywhere downstairs and the parcel was nowhere to be seen. I came upstairs to find an alternative when I saw my clothes I was looking for had been neatly pressed. I dressed up and I got out of my house at 12:50pm.

(Writer) While Mrs Smith tried to race through traffic, Joy had woken up late herself. She was just about to get changed when she was shocked to see Jay in her room. “Jay, what are you doing here and who are all these people?” Joy asked. “We have started the party as your flyer did say 12 and these are most of our guests so those are the answers to your questions” Jay was being cheeky. “This is all wrong, we are having a glitter girls’ party” Joy knew. “No we aren’t, we changed it, this is a punk club so a punk party must be included” Jay answered. “We didn’t change nothing and how did you even know about the party?” Joy was getting slightly annoyed. “I heard you. At least your big mouth is good for something” Jay remarked. “So where are all mine and Sarah’s stuff?” Miss Hope looked round. “Over there” Jay did not make it clear where she meant. “Where?” Joy walked to the window and located them outside in the bin. “You threw my stuff in the trash!” Joy’s eyes widened. “At least you saw it” Jay replied. “Why did you do that?!” Joy yelled. “I’ve told you already” Jay knew and the doorbell rang. “Could you get that?, I can’t leave my guests” Jay ordered her older cousin.

Joy went downstairs and opened the door. “Wow Sarah, you look fantastic” Joy complimented her dear friend. “Thanks, you look...where’s your outfit?” Sarah moved on. “I was about to wear it when I saw that Jay ruined our whole party” Joy moaned. “What did she do?” Sarah sat down. “She took ours down even where we were going to have the station to make nail designs when we want to change it. Then she threw them in the bin and replaced it with hers” Miss Smith’s eyebrows raised. When Joy sat down an idea came to Sarah’s mind and she told Joy and they went to do it.

2 minutes later, “hey, what are you guys doing?” Sarah stopped the music while Joy put the banner down. “We’re taking down your stuff and putting some stuff up that we had as a back up so we can actually have a glitter party since that’s the club name” Joy answered. “You know we changed it” Jay repeated. “We didn’t need to. You can make your own club instead of destroying mine” Joy also repeated. “Correction, I made it better. I only did you a favour” Jay thought. “Whatever, now take your stuff and get out!” Joy demanded. “No, this is my party and my guests are not leaving so why don’t you get out” Jay threw Joy’s party stuff out of the room. Joy started to cry and Sarah took her downstairs.

(Me) Today I can’t really explain what I’ve seen. It doesn’t feel like a disaster because the party couldn’t even come on. Joy was so upset because of her cousin. She made herself send a message to the guests that the party was cancelled. I tried to make Joy happy but I failed. I had to call my mum, let her know what happened and ask her to pick me up. But she allowed me to make sure Joy was feeling better before she left to pick me.

As soon as I got home, I sped up to remove my outfit, in the event I may need it again. During our late afternoon meal, mum mentioned the Church barbecue event briefly. She informed my brother and I that they will be holding their first church service so we were going for it tomorrow.

The day went on as normal. In the evening, I took the laptop to investigate my mail box for any new email that might have come. After, I went on a website Joy had shown me quite a while ago. I had seen that Joy had already registered an account each for us. I spent the rest of my night making my page fabulous as Joy knew I loved creative freedom.

The following day, I arose at 7:23am and picked out what I wanted to wear for the service. Remember? The one I told you about before. Then I got ready and waited for my mother and lazy brother. We left at 8:15am and got there 10 minutes past the time it was supposed to start (8:40am).

Mum, without a pause for breath, went to the Bible study as it said on the programme that came with the invitation. I saw Joy and hugged her “have you got a bible?”. “No, can I share yours?” Joy asked. “Sure” I allowed and we walked to the hall to take part in the study.

When it was time for children’s service, all the youth made no effort to leave quietly. The younger children mostly stayed in line almost, except for one.

“Hi Sam” I noticed and greeted him. “Sarah, I’m really sorry for what I did to you, can you forgive me?” Sam required. “I already have” I let him know. “So can I call you sometime?” He wanted. “Ok” I didn’t sound eager.

Since not many of us had brought Bibles, I had to share with Joy as well as Sam, who by the way smelt really good. Although not all the necessary equipment was there I still learnt a lot from Auntie Grace, the Sunday school leader. I learnt about how God created the world and why He loves us. This is what I took away from the lesson: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son and that whosoever believes in Him, shall not perish but have everlasting life. That was from John 3:16 in the Bible. I know it may seem I know a lot but I don’t. However I really hope I can learn more.

When Church ended, I walked out of the Sunday School room, at which point I met Auntie Grace’s daughter, Tina. She was getting things laid out and ready on a table for something called Victory care. Victory Care was referred to as a ministry. It was a way that God inspired people to show forth His love for them. Tina was in charge of it every week and I offered to help. It was fun and I was handed £5 which I didn’t initially accept. Beside the stall, was another one which was selling a book called Converted to Christianity. Everyone was grabbing one at every minute. As time passed, two of the choristers, Auntie Susie and Uncle Samuel who were also brother and sister, appeared near the exit. Uncle Samuel grabbed and paid for two of the books. Auntie Susie bought the last one then Uncle Samuel motioned to her that one was for her. “Oh no they’re all gone” mum groaned. “Here you go dear” Auntie Susie placed the book in her hand. “Oh no, you got here first, fair and square” mum acknowledged. “It’s ok, my brother bought one for me, please take it. I hope you will visit again soon” the chorister did not sing. “Definitely. Thank you and have a lovely week” mum remarked.

At home I added Tina on FlashForm, then I saw her online. I clicked her name and invited Joy. We had a good time chatting to her properly. I knew that we would be great friends because Tina is cool.

(Writer) The girls seemed to be having a good time and Sarah seemed to be much happier. Unfortunately the next thing that happened put a damper on everything.

Chapter 6

(Me) We just heard that Jay’s parents passed away so we were going to visit her. It was obvious that Joy had been hit by the news but Jay had been painfully affected at the termination of her parents’ life. Joy’s mum’s reaction seemed to be at the highest point of devastation, as if she was inconsolable. It was arranged that Jay would live in Joy’s house so Mr Hope helped her to pack her things. Joy asked my mum if I could stay with her but my mum didn’t allow it. However on our way home she agreed to let us reschedule a date for the party we should have had.

A week later, I saw my very chirpy chum was so glum. Joy complained her cousin was getting more attention than she thought she needed. She claimed that her parents were ignoring her. I told her she was overreacting and being inconsiderate after she gave me her reasons. Joy decided to let her feelings go.

(Writer) 2 weeks by this time, Joy had just about enough of the way she was being treated. She had realised that the basis of her paranoia was accurate. As a result of that, she packed her bags to head off to her friend’s house.

Once she was ready, Miss Hope started to tiptoe as she was scared her parents would notice. At this point it appeared that she had lost courage, especially as Mrs Hope walked towards the kitchen. “Hi Joy” that was all Joy heard so she just walked out of the house.

At 8:01 pm Miss Hope had arrived in front of her best friend’s house. “Joy, honey what are you doing here?” Mrs Smith came to the door. “I moved out” Joy simply stated. “Oh dear why?” Mrs Smith asked and Joy explained her reasons and expressed her feelings.

“Oh Joy, I do feel sorry but I don’t feel that was the right thing to do. So why don’t you just stay for dinner then call your folks to come and pick you up” Sarah Smith’s mum suggested. “Ok Mrs Smith” she brought her stuff in and placed them by the door.

(Me) “Hi Sarah” Joy entered into my room. “Hi” I replied. “What are you doing?” Joy sat on my bed. “Talking to Sam” Joy turned to me. “What?” I looked up. “I thought you decided to forget about him” Joy alleged. “I did but I’ve forgiven him and I have his email. Also he is the only one online” I thought was justifiable. “Oh ok” I informed Sam that Joy was here and he wrote ‘hi’. I passed it onto Joy and kept on conversing with Sam while Joy stayed pretty much quiet. I guess she was trying to read my messages. Then mum called us for dinner so I told Sam I had to go. He sweetly asked if I will come back and I replied yes. He sent a smiley but I decided to log off still.

“Go and wash up girls, by the time you come it will be on the table” mum sent us to do. Five minutes later at the table, Joy, Tom and I were eating lamb, chicken pieces and chips. My mum ate the same, watching her favourite soap opera.

(Writer) 25 minutes later, “Mrs Smith, can I call my parents?” Joy questioned. “Of course you can dear” Joy picked up the phone. “Mum, I’m sorry I left and got you worried. Can you come and pick me up?” Requested Joy. “You left? When?” Mrs Hope researched. “About 2 hours ago” Joy said. “Oh I didn’t even notice. You can come back when you’re ready” Mrs Hope was unaware. “Yeah, so” her daughter was cut off. The long buzzing sound forced Miss Hope to put the phone down and feel hurt. “Mrs Smith, I’m not going home. My parents didn’t even realise I left and they don’t even care. My mum even hung up on me” Joy reported to Heather Hope’s close friend. “Oh. Ok, you let me ponder over it and you go to Sarah” Joy did just that.

“What you doing now?” Miss Smith’s pleasantly cheery friend wanted to know. “Sending messages to Sam” Sarah was typing. “Again?” Joy found it weird. “Picking up where we left off. Have you messaged him?” Sarah kept her attention on the screen. “Yeah the other day. It’s just you only finished talking to him less than an hour ago and you’re talking to him again” Joy said. “Don’t worry I will show you the conversations soon ok” Miss Smith still decided not to give Miss Hope eye contact and Joy hit her with a pillow. “Hey! What did you do that for?” Sarah turned away from the screen. “To get you to do that. You’re in a completely different world so I need to bring you back” Sarah did nothing then Joy hit her again. “Hey, watch it” Joy’s best friend didn’t do much. “No” Joy dared her. “Ok the war is on” Miss Smith grabbed a pillow and attacked back. They had fun for half an hour.

“Girls, come and take Joy’s stuff to Sarah’s room!” Charlotte Smith used their names in 3rd person. “Thanks, Mrs Smith” Joy took her two travel bags and left her pal to bring the suitcase.

When the girls had settled everything, they helped Charlotte Smith to pump up the travel beds which were more necessary for jumping haha. Once they were done with that, they were up for a little longer and they fell asleep.

During the time Joy and Sarah were at school the next day, Joy was approached by a girl in their year. “Hey, Joy how are you doing?” The girl called Natasha asked.” I’m much better thanks” Joy stated. “What happened?” Natasha made an inquiry. “My auntie and uncle passed away” Joy informed her. “Oh sorry Joy. So what happened to the party?” She wanted to be advised. “Something came up, had to be cancelled” Joy said. “Oh, are you still thinking of having it?” She beseeched. “I’m not sure” Joy articulated doubt. “Oh” Natasha regarded as bad news. “Come on J” Sarah made her not have to say more.

Later in the day, Sarah had told Joy that her mum felt okay to allow them to throw another party. So they discussed dates but were unsure of the best date to have it. On their time-table, the girls were having biology, drama, maths and art.

Period 7+8 art. Creative juices were flowing. Miss Smith had the inspiration to draw her best friend from an angle. She looked at her closely and carefully. “Alright class, time is up show me what you’ve done. Very good..Sarah who is that a painting of?” Miss Rain asked. “You mean you can’t tell?” Sarah responded. “Unless you tell me, no” Miss Rain supposed. “Good. It’s someone who I admire a lot but since I haven’t finished, the mystery can’t be revealed till doing so” Sarah stood by her ground. “Ok, well you will have half of next lesson to complete your masterpieces. For the rest of the lesson it will be the presentation, where you also need to give some notes around it. So clear up and you can go home” the teacher instructed.

(Me) Joy tried to squirm out of me who I was painting. It was so easy to resist because I knew that she could tell it was her so I kept quiet.

At home, for a while we watched TV then played on the computer.

Looking at how late it was getting, we did our ICT homework then went to bed.

In the middle of the night, we felt a bit peckish so I grabbed a pack of BBQ Ridge chips. We snacked on it until we heard footsteps. We hid under the covers and it was so obvious that mum knew we were awake. We were giggling so loud. We just couldn’t help it and she knew that.

The next morning, I showered first then Joy came in after. My newest roommate decided to try a new hairstyle today and I told her how I really liked it. I asked her to wear it everyday but she argued that no one would be excited about it after a couple of days. We had our cereal then left at 8:37 am.

“Joy, your hair looks wicked” Melanie agreed with me and I smiled. “You think so?” Joy grinned. “Yeah, really nice” was the repeated comments she received in the morning. I took every opportunity to smile instead of saying I told her so. Her do looked so good that even people she didn’t know who were in conversation came up to her and high fived her then ran back.

“Okay Sarah, you and everyone else have convinced me. I’ll wear my hair like this everyday, thanks to you” Joy hugged me. Yeah you heard her, thanks to me, I’m so happy for her.

Okay you know I said before that I was happy well I kinda take it back. I know it’s only been a few hours but I have now regretted it.

I couldn’t figure out if this was generosity or favouritism but our Geography teacher Mrs Germaine walked to our table. She admired Joy’s hair and I heard how her sister has recently opened a hairdressing salon. Also she has been looking for new hairstyles and would love to see hers. Later, Joy was taken somewhere and she never came back to the lesson so I was harshly abandoned.

Simultaneous to the end of the lesson, she told me what she had to do and I felt more regret. Then she let me know that she got some tickets for rides. Most of which she had were for water rides, that we could go on for free at a theme park. She asked if Sam and I could come and invited us. It’s good she did since it’s all because of me.

So we set off early the next morning, got there at 10 and went on the rides at least 3 times each. They were so awesome and I got so soaked but I had no problem with that.

As we were leaving the park, it was getting a bit chilly but that wasn’t the reason I could barely feel a thing. Rather it was because of the roar of excitement inside my lungs like lava in a volcano.

Sam took us to his dad’s entertainment store and it was massively impressive. It was filled with so much merchandize. Words like incredible sprung to my mind, looking at it all. We were allowed to bring one item from the store, so I bought a game that Tom has been bugging mum to get.

Sam’s cousin came to pick us up and Joy and I stepped foot in my house at 7:45pm. We, without a worry running through our minds, went for our food straightaway.

When we finished, I went to look for Tom to give him his game. “Tom!” I knocked on his door and he opened it without a word. As soon I handed it to him, it was like he was given the gift of speech. “Thanks” he uttered enthusiastically in full volume. I met Joy on the way down, she told me she wanted to pack her books for tomorrow. I told her I didn’t see any point so I stayed downstairs.

From five minutes of being left alone Sam called me. “Hello” I put my phone to my ear. “Hey Sarah, how are you?” Sam entreated. “I’m good, you?” I replied with a question. “Also fine, did you have a good time today?” He wanted to know. “Yeah it was fun, nothing short of thrilling and definitely not dry” I gave an answer. “(laughs) Yeah that’s true, it was awesome” Sam commented. “You can say that again” I agreed. Strangely there was a sudden silence. “Sam, are you there?” I wanted to check. “Yeah, I’m here, sorry. There’s something I want to say” I heard he was still there. “What?” I carried on listening. “Sarah, I still really like you. I know it’s the last thing you want to hear but it’s the truth” Sam established. “I still like you too” I brought out with no thought. “Like how I like Joy?” I was expected to give clarification. “More than that” I could no longer withdraw from reality. “Me too. So would you like to go out with me tomorrow?” He solicited. “Yeah that will be cool” I approved. “Is half six okay?” He checked for time. “Yeah ok” I approved again. “Ok see you tomorrow” Sam was going to hang up. “Bye” I ended the call.

“What will be cool?” Joy was standing beside where I was sitting. “Sam asked me out for tomorrow” I briefed Joy. “I thought you were over him” Joy alleged. “I thought I was but I still like him” I smiled. “Just be careful ok?” Joy wanted. “I hope you’ve not forgotten that” “ok we don’t need to repeat that but promise you will be” Joy genially looked at me, as a sign of wanting to protect me. “Ok” I accepted. “So where’s he taking you to?” Mum entered the room holding a laundry basket full of clothes. “Where’s who taking you to?” Mum sought. “Sam asked me out for tomorrow night” I rehearsed. “You know you can’t go” she assumed I knew. “Why? I’m not still grounded am I?” I checked. “Yes” she told me. “But I haven’t spent any extra time in school. It’s been a couple of weeks and I’ve been doing more cleaning” I justified. “That’s true..ok I will officially unground you if you make sure you are back by 8:30pm and you tell me about it when you get back” she granted two easy conditions. “Ok mum” I was ok with. “So what will you wear?” My mum required. “I’m not sure. Joy, do you want to help me look?” I asked. “Sure” Joy leapt up. “I’ll join you in a few” we went upstairs and slowly considered options, waiting for my mum.

Chapter 7

The next day at 5:50pm I wore light makeup that hadn’t been touched by Tom for 2 weeks 😮. Then I got my bag ready and my mum and Joy complimented me on how I looked which oddly made me a bit nervous. I knew it was because of the first date, when I wasn’t sure it was going to happen.

10 minutes after 6 came and I heard a knock on the door. “Oh hi Sam” I greeted him. “Sorry I’m a bit early, my cousin is starting work soon” Sam explained. “That’s ok. Joy! Mum!” I called them and they popped up. “Bye darling” they both issued me with a farewell. “You actually rehearsed it?” I smiled and mum nodded. “See you later” Sam and I went to the car.

We went to a cool restaurant with soft music and I just wondered how he could afford this. We were taken to our seats at 6:40pm and Sam held my chair for me to sit down. We ordered all our courses and drinks together.

The food made its appearance at 7pm and we prayed over our food before we started. As we ate, we made lovely conversation and he gave me several glances which brought half of the butterflies back when I met him.

By around 7:45pm I finished eating and drinking, “did you enjoy the meal?” Sam required. “I did and how did you find yours?” I asked. “Tasty..very tasty” Sam responded. “I can see” I looked at his empty plate. “You can see the dessert you like?” Sam wondered. “No I’m okay not having dessert” I claimed even though I did want it. “No please let’s go and get some. They all look good, I promise you won’t be disappointed” he stood by me to help me up and we went for desserts.

Fifteen minutes later I was done so I settled back in my seat. Then Sam asked me to dance so I was interrupted and what a pleasurable distraction it was. I could feel something definitely changing.

After those beautiful collection of moments, we sat back down. I had a drink while my date paid the bill.

We got to my front door a little after 8:30pm so I was not looking forward to knowing what was next on my mum’s agenda. As unpleasant as it would be, I had to say bye first. “Thanks, Sam for taking me to that nice place. I had a nice time” I kept it brief. “I had fun too and you were great company” Sam commented. “Thanks, you were too” I also kept it short. “So, I’ll see you tomorrow” I just couldn’t help myself but to stare into his golden eyes. Once again he reacted with the same energy. “Yeah” I smiled and got into my house. My mum gave me a fright, “Sarah, 8:30pm means the minute hand is on the 6 and the hour hand is between 8 and 9 but it’s moved past” my mum proved my prediction right. Fortunately or unfortunately, I didn’t know how it would unfold. “I know mum, so how..” I was going to ask about my next punishment. “Just go upstairs, change and come and tell me how it went” my mum ordered. “Okay, I’ll be back” I left her, feeling confident that she was just easing me in.

“Joy, I’m gonna give the details so you better come and listen” I told Joy. “No thanks” Joy passed. I got downstairs and mum was trying to wait patiently for the report. I was about to start when I heard “wait!” Joy rushed to sit by my mum and I started. Later on we went to bed and woke up at 7:30am the next morning.

On our way to school, Joy was pestering me to tell her who my portrait was of. “Please just tell me” Joy begged. I shook my head and smirked. “I’ll do anything for you to tell me” she was desperate. “No you won’t” I knew. “Yes, I will, I promise girl” Miss Hope tried to convince me but she failed. “Come on, let’s go, it won’t be long” I said nothing else. “Oh Sarah” I took her inside our school.

We had maintained our attendance to all of our subjects that day. It was only art though we accommodated in our minds, more due to Joy.

“Ten minutes left class, you should be getting ready to round off your pieces. If you are sure you are done and have made a mess start to clean up” Miss Rain let us know. I could just feel I was being watched like a hawk and Joy was hovering over me so I got up and sat next to Sam. I could sense that she was sad but I wanted to get it done. Plus, she took all the focus off mine and was able to finish hers. It did her good too because the waiting period was cut down mercilessly.

“Alright class who wants to show theirs first?” The part time artist teacher enquired. No one shot their hands up. “Sarah, let’s see yours” the professional candidly and heartily volunteered me. I exposed my portrait and there were some “oos” and “wows”. “That is beautiful Sarah, tell us, who was your motivation for your portrait?” The teacher went straight to the point. “Someone I really admire and that is Joy” Joy smiled. “Well done Sarah, you did a good job and your technique is effective” my teacher celebrated my effort. “Thanks Miss” I sat down and time passed expeditiously.

Joy and I were nearing the entrance of the school when we saw Sam. “Hey Sarah, would you like to go dancing with me tonight?” Sam went straight in. “I would but I need to ask my mum first” I didn’t answer his invite to a second date. “That’s fine with me, so just text me if you can” Sam was cool about. “Ok” I said.

When we got home, I asked my mum and she was so happy. She offered to help me to pick my outfit but I respectfully kicked her out. I chose an orange skirt with a pink top then waited for my date to arrive.

When we got there, the hall was filled with so many people. The hall was full of passion and it watched them all moving in style. I was itching just by watching.

By an hour after I realised I was having fun, I started getting less energetic by the moment. Then Sam woke me up with an exotic spin and we kept twirling back and forth.

After another hour of spontaneous dancing, we had a drink of cool lemonade and headed out. Before taking me home, Sam and I took a walk around the cleanest park in our neighbourhood. Our evening together was going smoothly, we were chatting and laughing. However it did not stop me from telling him more than once I couldn’t be late home. You can think I was responsible.

“Ooo it’s getting really chilly” I remarked. “Aren’t you wearing a coat?” Sam tested me. “Yes but I’m still cold” I tried to keep myself warm. “Here you go” Sam wore his jacket over me, “thanks but aren’t you getting cold?” I was sure of. “No..Yeah” he changed his mind when the cold hit him. “Here, take some back” we kept on walking under his coat.

After a few minutes, “are you starting to feel warm now?” Sam wanted to detect a change. “Much more and thank you for taking me dancing it was really great” I spoke. “Yeah I had a wonderful time too” he commented. Before I knew it, the atmosphere took us by surprise. It was like time stood still, patiently waiting for us to be ready before it went on. We were just embracing each other, with the same passion created in the dancehall. I could just feel a glow of warmth hitting only me and it felt remarkably new. When time resumed, I knew all my feelings were just rushing back for Sam and I was hopeful it would last forever.

Chapter 8

(Writer) The next day presented some with a shock. That family couldn’t all take it in. Let’s skip to the main event.

(Me) 1pm on Saturday afternoon was a busy time. This is the day we had landed on for having our party, we were meant to have last month. Now just working on the final touches while we’re waiting for our guests.

(Writer) Downstairs, Mrs Smith was preparing all the snacks for the party. She was able to peacefully cut the sandwiches the way her daughter and friend wanted it. She also intended to lay out the other refreshments when the doorbell rang. She assumed that she will see 13 and 14 year old girls but instead it was Kirk, the father of her children. “What are you doing here?” Mrs Smith didn’t care to be polite. “Came to see how you are” Kirk wasn’t truthful. “Am fine. Bye” she tried to shut the door. “Please wait Charlotte, I need to talk to you” Kirk stated. “There is nothing to discuss” Mrs Smith knew. “Please I want to see you” the separated partner replied. “I don’t want to see you” Miss Smith approached the top of the stairs, “neither do I”. “Kirk, some of the girls are coming round for a party so you need to go” Charlotte told the father. “Charlotte let’s have a chat, please” Kirk tried to persuade Charlotte. “Mum, go and listen to what he has to say” Sarah spoke. “Are you sure you will be ok?” Sarah was asked. “Yes” Sarah affirmed. “ Ok Kirk you go to the cafe, I’ll be there” Charlotte accepted. “We can go together, I’ll wait in the car” Kirk decided.

Two hours later, the girls were having fun. There was the taking part in different dancing and singing contests and musical statues. It didn’t matter whether they were good or not because it was about them enjoying themselves. Many girls who won, received prizes whereas the rest got sweets. When they were done with that, the music kept on playing, while snacking on the tables provided. Joy and Sarah were kept busy placing party treats inside gift bags.

Later on when all the trays of refreshments had been ransacked, the girls were given their gift bags. Miss Hope started to divide the cake from Mrs Smith, equally for 16 girls while Miss Smith wrapped them up. Just before Joy was done, Sarah went to check on their guests. All the girls placed a slice of cake in their bags then they rounded up by playing the last game.

The 10 minutes after 5 seemed to escape quickly like a self-trained thief in the night. Parents had started to arrive to terminate the fun. Every girl left one by one. It turned to 5:30pm when the last guest left.

At 6pm Mr and Mrs Smith joined Sarah and Joy in the living room. “How was the party girls?” Sarah’s mum inquired. “It was good. We had a lot of fun with games and everything else” Sarah reported. “That’s great” Mrs Smith smiled. “Hi darling how are you?” Kirk boldly threw to his daughter. “Fine” Sarah alleged. “How are your parents, Joy?” Kirk tried to prolong his stay. “Fine thank you” Joy replied and then there was an awkward silence between Joy, Sarah and Kirk. Charlotte missed her go at being dissolved in the tension as she was in the kitchen. For a few minutes, she didn’t have to bear the weight of unsolved issues.

As Sarah’s mother returned, no reason remained for the father to stay so she decided to relieve Kirk. “We had a good chat but it’s time for you to go now” Charlotte broke the silence. “Ok, you’re right” he left the living room. “Dad!!!” Tom ran to embrace his dad. “Hey kiddo, how are you doing?” The dad received the hug. “I’m fine, I’ve missed you” Tom was elated. “I’ve missed you too” Kirk enjoyed this moment. “Mum, can dad stay for dinner?” Tom made a request, after he dragged him to where his mother was. “Sorry, I only cooked for 4” Tom’s mother told him. “We are 4 aren’t we?” Kirk was not aware of the present living arrangements. “No, Joy is staying with us so that would make it 5” Mrs Smith revealed. “Actually I have to go somewhere, maybe another time kiddo” Mr Smith could tell he wasn’t welcome. “Please mum” her son begged for permission. “Ok, if your dad wants to stay, he can have some too” Mrs Smith allowed. Kirk sat on the couch and Tom sat on his lap.

Everyone was at the dinner table at 7:20pm. Before they dived into the food, they blessed it, with the exception of Kirk who didn’t wait. They all ate till they were fully satisfied.

Thirty minutes later, the thought of bowing out gracefully settled in Kirk’s mind. “That was delicious mum” her daughter commented. “Thanks love” she settled on the couch, silently unhappy the father was still there. “I‘d better be going. Thank you for dinner” Kirk left the house. Mrs Smith put the TV on. They watched the comedy programme which took comedy to a new level. Everyone was enjoying it and keeping their eyes on the screen except Sarah.

With only a few minutes left towards 9pm, the Smith family heard a knock on the door. Sarah went to open the door. “Hi Mr and Mrs Hope” she welcomed them and they entered with Jay. “What are you doing here?” Joy did the opposite. “We came to say that we’ve missed you and we are sorry that we ignored you” Mrs Hope remarked. “Ok bye” Joy wasn’t convinced. “Please Joy I really want you to come back. I’m sorry I was a major pain and disrespectful” the other cousin noticed her wrong publicly. Miss Hope didn’t respond but looked at their faces then changed her approach towards them. “Mrs Smith, thank you for taking me into your house. I’m really thankful that you showed care for me like your daughter. Thank you for being so kind and I have had a wonderful time” Miss Hope appreciated her. “You’re welcome anytime” Charlotte Smith smiled. Joy hugged Jay and her parents then Joy, Jay and Sarah went to get her stuff.

Half an hour from then, all Joy’s stuff was in the car and final goodbyes were said. “Sarah you are such a tremendous friend and a sister to me” she hugged her friend and shortly they were off.

Sarah, her mother and brother enjoyed each other’s company for a little while more. At the appropriate time they slept to prepare for Church the next morning.

(Me) Hi, after Church Sam asked me to be his girlfriend. My dad told us he was going to an anger management course and Tom and I ended up okay.

Just to let you know in a few days it will be Christmas but in a way I can say I’ve opened my presents already. That’s it for now but don’t go far as more is to be told.