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Chapter 9

James

God, you’re bad at this, bruv. I’m clearly going to have to give you a hand.

Hero sped towards me down the path between the ageing tennis-cum-netball courts and the even older science block. He couldn’t see me, of course. Behind him, there she was, as expected.

Felicity Shagwell. What are we going to do with you?

My brother hurtled past me and through the double doors towards the lunch hall. I stepped out from my hiding place, and the red-faced Fi sprawled over me.

‘Oh, I’m so sorry,’ she squealed, dropping the book she was carrying.

‘Not at all. It’s not every day that I’m accosted by a beautiful girl,’ I said with a gallant smile.

Her face became an even darker red, almost purple.

You girls really are so shallow.

‘James,’ she said. ‘Where did you come from? I didn’t see you.’

‘Don’t worry about it. I’m always in the place you least expect me.’ I bent down and picked up the book she’d dropped, Pride and Prejudice.

‘What do you think of it?’ I asked, slowly handing it back to her. Needed to buy him more time to get ahead of her.

‘It’s good.’ She snatched it from me.

‘Who’s your favourite character?’

‘Mr Darcy.’

As expected. So shallow. When she returned my gaze, she had that hazy, faraway look of the lovelorn. I was taken aback by the intensity of it.

Hmm, I’m going to need a long-term plan for you. What the hell have you done to this girl, bruv?

‘I’m sorry, I’d love to chat, but I’m in a hurry.’ She squeezed past me.

‘For lunch?’

‘I’m hoping to meet someone.’

Hopefully not.

‘Who? Not Hero? Tell him I said hi if you do see him.’

She scurried away like a dog chasing a rabbit.

I continued on my way to the library. A blond boy about Fi’s age in a white lab coat was standing at the windows which ran the entire length of the chemistry lab, watching my every move. He slowly twisted a conical flask in his hands as he glowered at me. From the size of him, I guessed he must be in the rugby team. I returned his glare until he averted his eyes. One must never back down.

I smiled with satisfaction. A handsome athlete for the lovely young lady.

Well, well, well, Mr Blonde, you might be exactly what I’m looking for.