| |
|
|
|
|
Mexican Magic
By Lauren Mickens
Copyright 2001 Lauren Mickens
Click here if you'd like to exchange critiques
Hi! I’m Chloe. My full name is Chloe Ann- I don’t have a last name. I was abandoned at an orphanage at age two; and am currently in Military School at age sixteen. My two-year term is almost over- one more week to go!
John, our Drill Sergeant, woke the girls’ cabin up early in the morning-4:00 maybe. Drowsily, but quickly, I yanked on my clothes and reported outside (in alphabetical order). I am the second in line since I have to use my middle name. When everybody was lined up, that took all of ten seconds; we dropped and did fifty push-ups, 100 sit-ups, 50 crunches, and 150 jumping jacks.
And that’s only the beginning!
Breakfast was at 5:00 sharp.
Oh Goody, grossed-out scrambled eggs again!
I got my food and sat across the table from Kevin, my boyfriend-that I know I’ll never see again, because he lives in Mexico, and smiled an answer to his muttered ‘Mornin’ . Meals are the only time we get to see each other each day- it’s kinda pathetic. When he fell asleep face first in his food, I kicked him awake. “ What was going on last night?” He shook his head fiercely to wake himself up. “ The pillow fight of the century-until John caught us and we had to run around the school five times.” I giggled, and he smiled. He likes my giggle. “I didn’t get to sleep until after midnight.” “Poor baby.” I said sarcastically. “Damn right.”
My Agenda-
5:30- training
6:00- schooling
12:00-lunch
12:30-6:30- training
6:30- dinner
7:00-8- more training
8:00- in cabins
8-8:30- free time
9:00 lights out.
Sucks-don’t it?
A week later, after tearful goodbyes to Kevin and his big brother Tony, I was on a train back to The Orphanage in Florida. I dumped my bags in the corner of my literal hole-in-the-wall, (It was a squared hole in the wall- with only enough room for about one person to sleep comfortably) there wasn’t any use to unpacking them- I don’t have a dresser or trunk. Gina came running over “Chloe! I’m so happy for you!” I just stood there.
“Huh?”
“ Haven’t you heard?”
“Heard what?”
“ You’re getting ADOPTED!”
“Pinch me. Really?” She nodded. “What about you?”
“I’m stuck here.”
“ I’m not gonna leave you here without me kick Dan’s ass when he makes fun of you.” She laughed.
“ I can handle it. Besides- he’s filthy rich and lives in Mexico with only his money to keep him company.”
“Who? My new dad?”
“Yes.”
The next morning, I was summoned to the office. There, Artemis Black had flown in all the way from Mexico just to adopt me! I quickly said good-bye to Gina while he signed the papers. I slept the whole way to Mexico on MY bed in MY Private Jet! I could get used to this…
When we were in the limo on our way to my new home, I tried my best to pick up a conversation with my new dad. “ Artemis?”
“ Yes Chloe?”
“ There’s a slight problem here.”
“ What’s that?”
“ I don’t know a lot of Spanish.”
“ That could be a problem. Do you know the basics? Hello? Good Bye?”
“ No.”
“ I’ll have to hire a teacher for you.” I bit my tongue. I had to mention it!
“ Chloe,”
“ Yea?”
“ Our next door neighbors are coming over to see you and to have supper. Is that Okay?”
“ Yeah. Who are they?”
“ Ms. Davidson and her two kids, Kevin and Tony. You might know Kevin. He went to military school.”
“ Yeah. I remember.” I replied dreamily.
“ We’ll have to take you shopping. What you’re wearing is okay for around the house, but I hold a lot of dinner parties and banquets. Juan,” “ Yes Sir?” “ Stop by the mall.” “ Whatever you say sir.”
This was the best two days of my life! I’m adopted, I’m rich, I have my own private jet, I’m going to see Kevin again, I’m going shopping, and- I get to order people around!
It felt like hours later, we finally got to my new….MANSION! Holy Crap! This is the biggest house for miles! “ Do you like it Chloe?” Artemis asked me.
Like you couldn’t tell by the way my mouth was hanging open.
“Yes. I love it. It’s heaven compared to my hole-in-the-wall at the Orphanage.” “ You have the whole fourth floor to yourself. I’ll give you a tour later.”
The whole fourth floor! Was this guy nuts?
After I unpacked, there wasn’t a lot to do; I walked over to Kevin’s house- Next Door. This is all turning out too nicely for me-watch, he died or something with my luck.
“ I’m sorry. He’s in jail, again.” His mother told me. “ For what?” “ He was caught out skateboarding after the 10:00 village curfew, for the third time. I left him there for a while this time. May I ask who you are?”
Skateboarding? What a hunk! I can’t resist boarders.
“ I’m Chloe. Artemis just adopted me Sunday. Kevin and I met at Military School.” “Really?” “Yeah, I was even considered his girlfriend for a while.” Tony appeared in the doorway and stared at me, surprised. I groaned. “ Not you again… And here I thought I’d finally gotten rid of you.” Ms. Davidson laughed. “ I like you. Can I trust you with the bail money?” “ Yes ma’am.” “ Here. Go bail him out for me. I hope a week was a good enough lesson. Tony, go with her.” “Why?”
“ The poor dear doesn’t even know how to speak Spanish.” I looked at her. “How’d you know that?” she winked and shooed us away.
“ Oh, here this was in my mailbox. It has your name on it.”
“ Thank you. I’ll pick up Kevin and bring him right back.” I persuaded Tony to drive his Convertible instead of walking.
(The ol’ “My feet hurt.” Followed by my irresistible puppy eyes always work.)
“ Hello. I’m here to bail somebody out.” The guard looked over the newspaper. “ No hablas Engles.” Tony saved me. They spoke at some length in Spanish, and then the guard heaved his muscular body out of the chair and motioned for me to follow.
I’m not going to describe the place. I spent two years in military training, and this jail brought shivers up my spine.
Kevin is so hot! He hadn’t grown any taller,
Of course he didn’t! It’s only been four days!
And you could see his six-pack of muscles through his white military tank top. His brown hair was spiked, and his brown eyes were looking at me in amazement. I swung my waist length braid of blond hair behind me and helped him up. I smiled and hugged him. “ I missed you.” He grinned broadly. “ Let’s get the hell outta this dump.”
When we got to my house, we piled out of the red convertible.
“ See ya later Chloe.” “ See ya.” They walked over to their house and in the front door. As soon as Kevin walked in, I heard his mother’s shrill voice screaming, “ What the hell were you thinking?!” I shook my head. That’s pitiful. I personally don’t see why she’s so upset. I mean, 10:00 curfew? That’s about the time I leave to go on a date. I started to hike up the three flights of spiral stairs, and then remembered that we had an elevator, and changed my mind. My maid, Sandy, came up to help me get ready for Dinner.
I wore an emerald green puffy gown. The back came down really low, and was held up by crissed-crossed spaghetti straps. The shoes were four-inch high-heeled emerald green sandals. My long hair was pulled up into a tight bun, and Sally put a hairpiece on that made it look like one of those really fancy, puffy buns. Around my neck was a necklace of silver chain with an emerald star on the end. When I was done, I looked like a princess of some kind. I decided that the stairs were too dangerous for my heels, so I took the elevator. Kevin was waiting at the bottom. “Hello.” “ Hey.” He looked handsome in his baggy dress pants,
Lovely flannel boxers!
And white shirt. I assumed that his mom made him dress like that. “ This is gonna be so boring.” “ And so uncomfortable.” I added. “ Does it take that long?” “ Yes.” He pulled the chair out for me to sit down.
Such a nice boy!
I stared at the silverware in awe. There were too many forks! It’s supposed to be one, not three! Kevin obviously saw me, because he whispered instructions in my ear. “ Start from the outside and work your way in. Like on ‘Titanic’.” I nodded. It was still ridiculous! Artemis looked at me and laughed.
“ What?”
“ You.”
“ What did I do?”
“ I’m sorry. I didn’t even think about this.” I rolled my eyes.
“ Just eat like you normally do. I’ll have to hire someone to teach you how we eat, act, stuff like that.”
“ An etiquette teacher?”
“ Yes. That’s the word.” I giggled.
“ Mr. Black,”
“ Yes Sally?”
“ Your company manager in Wisconsin is on line three.”
“ Thank you. Please excuse me.”
He left the room and didn’t come back until dessert. “ What took so long Artemis?” “ That fool, Loxley, needs me to come in as soon as possible.” I frowned. “ I have to go to Wisconsin for about a week. You’ll have to stay with somebody, or you can come with me. I’ll think about it. I have an idea.” I shrugged.
After the French Silk pie, Kevin and Tony followed me upstairs to change. Kevin sat on my bed, watching Tony, (who was currently playing Gran Turismo 2) and I was in my dressing room. I opened my pajama drawer, and I screamed. This was a tomboy’s nightmare. Kevin came in. “ What?” “ This.” I held up one of the slender, sleazy silk nightgowns that filled my drawer. He burst out laughing. “ You’re supposed to wear that?” “ I guess. I really don’t have a choice. Now go. I need to change.” He left the dressing room, pink from laughing. I slid it on and pulled my hair down, pulling my top underwear drawer open.
Oh, Dear God, THONGS!?
Reluctantly, I pulled one on. “ Kevin!”
“ Yeah?”
“ Get me my robe please.”
“ I don’t see it.”
I sighed and opened the door. Men! I crossed the room and pulled it off of the coat rack behind the door. Kevin, dazed by the racing game, didn’t even notice.“ Oh.” Tony looked at his watch and got up to leave. “ What’s up with you? Got a hot date?” he grinned wickedly and left. “ Chloe, did you open that letter?” “ No.” “ Come over here. We’ll open it together.” I grabbed the letter off of my nightstand and snuggled up on my four-poster bed with Kevin and ripped it open.
Dear Miss Chloe Black,
We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted to be taught in the magical ways at Mystica, School For The Magically Gifted. Term starts on September Fifth. Be at the school one-day prior. Enclosed is a list of supplies needed. I will expect to see you there.
Nova Starre,
Head Witch of Mystica.
“I thought that this stuff was a bunch of mumbo-jumbo.” “ So did I, until mother showed me that it was real.” His face turned a sickly white. “ Your mom is a witch, or am I having a really freaky dream?“ He nodded. “She picked up the couch with a flick of her hand.”
“You’re kidding!”
“Uh-uh. I swear to the Holy Bible.” He said, putting his free hand on the intricate bible on my nightstand.
We walked downstairs and into the second floor parlor, where our parents were talking. “ Artemis?” “ Yes dear?” I handed him the letter, and his face turned as white as the mansion. “ Can I go?” “It’s your choice.”
“Really?”
“Yes. I’ve only been your Dad for a day, you might as well get spoiled before I get used to you.”
“Thank You!” I hugged him.
“Ms Davidson, could you take her to get her supplies?” she nodded.
“While I’m in Wisconsin, I’ve arranged for you to stay at Kevin’s house. Is that okay with you?”
I nodded.
Of course it was okay!
“ I’m leaving tonight. Go pack.” “ Yes Sir.”
When Kevin and I were in the elevator, out of our parent’s hearing range, I hugged him, resting my head on his broad shoulders, and he held me close.
Ooh, his muscles are sexy!
We packed a trunk full of clothes, fancy dresses, and anything else that I might need for Mystica, is it called?
Kevin took my trunk over to his house while Artemis gave me some stuff. “ Here’s your Social Security card, your insurance card, your phone card, your credit card, the house key, and your motorbike key.”
“ Artemis, I’ll be fi-“ I stopped in mid-sentence. “ Did you say motorbike, and credit card?”
“ Yes. Here’s the garage key too. I have to go now princess, I’ll see you after you get home from your school.”
“ Bye.” He kissed me on the cheek and hopped into the limo. Kevin tapped me on the shoulder. “ Let’s get you set up.”
He led me to a guest room with a four-poster bed much like my own, with deep, emerald green velvet blankets and curtains. The whole room looked like the inside of a genie’s lamp or something. I grinned.
“ I thought you’d like this one. Tony’s doing something upstairs though. I’ll tell him to stop.” I could tell what he was doing. “ You know what he’s doing right?” “ Yeah.” He made a face and I burst out laughing. “ Wait’ll mom finds out.” He grinned impishly. “ Oh, one more thing,” he gave me one of his tongue-involved irresistible kisses. “ Happy Birthday.”
“ You remembered?”
“ Yeah.” He blushed. “ We’re going shopping tomorrow.”
“ Okay. Good night.” I pulled off my robe and he looked at me in surprise before saying ” G’night cutie.” He tucked me into my very comfortable bed and turned off the light, shutting the door behind him as he left.
“Chloe, sweetie, its time to wake up.” I groaned and looked at the alarm clock. 8:00. “ Damn you early birds.” Kevin smiled. “ That’s my baby. When you’re ready, pancakes are on the table.” he turned and left the room. I hopped out of bed and pulled on my plaid mini-skirt, white long-sleeved belly shirt, (flaunting my tiny waist and silver belly-button ring) white knee socks, and black 4 inch Mary-Janes, pulled my hair into the puffy bun, and slid a ruby-studded choker around my neck.
“Okay smart guy, where’s the pancakes?” he laughed.
“ It was a hoax to get you out of bed. We’re stopping somewhere in Warlock Lane.”
“ Warlock Lane?”
“ It’s where we’re going to get our junk.”
“ Oh.”
Tony came down, half- dressed. “ Chloe, Can Katrina borrow some clothes?” “ Yeah. Just bring her to my room.” “ Thanks.” I trudged up the stairs and into my room. A few minutes later, Katrina came in, wearing Tony’s robe.
“ Hello.”
“ Hi. You need it all; don’t you?”
“ Yes. I can’t find half of it. Probably under his bed.”
I laughed. She was my size, but seventeen years old. Either I was huge, or she was tiny.
“ So, how old are you?” she asked as I rummaged through my trunk.
“ Sixteen.”
“Oh. You’re pretty tall.”
“ I know it gets so annoying, but it can be useful. People normally think that I’m seventeen, so I drove at the orphanage.”
She laughed. I handed her my Cecilia Bellbottoms and blue belly shirt, a thong, and a bra. “Sorry. That’s all that I have.”
“ That’ll work. So when’s your birthday?” she asked as she yanked it on.
“Last Night.” I grinned slyly. “ Did you have fun last night?” She turned beat-red. “We could hear you down here.” She pulled her curly jet-black hair onto a ponytail, ignoring me. “ Oh, geez Katrina, I’m just playing around with you.” “ I knew that.” We walked downstairs. When we walked in, Tony made a growling noise at Katrina. She laughed. “ Tonight, I’m going on a clothes-hunt under your bed.” Julio came in. “ The limo is ready.” We all piled into the limo, and Ms. Davidson ran out and handed us all a credit card.” This is the exclusive Warlock Lane Credit Card. Use it wisely.”
Julio drove us to the abandoned part of town, down a long ally, and straight through a brick wall!?! I turned around to look. It was an illusion! I let out the breath I didn’t know I was holding, and tried heave the fainted Kevin off of my lap. I finally just hit him, and he woke up. “ It was an illusion Kevin.” “ Oh.” “ Here. Eat this. It’ll help.” I handed him a piece of chocolate. “ Thanks.” We got out of the limo and noticed that the small village was staring at the limo as if they expected Enrique Inglecias to hop out. Tony pulled us into the nearest shop.
The Tailor was a skinny, small little man with black hair and black-looking eyes. “ May I help you?” I spoke up. “ We’re attending Mystica for school, and we need robes. “ Step back there please.” He pointed to four stools. We each stepped on a stool and tape measures started measuring us. By themselves! Kevin turned pale and shoved the rest of the chocolate in his mouth. There were scrolls and quills writing each measurement down. I peeked down at the tape measure, which was measuring my bust, and looked at the scroll, flinching at the number. The tape measures disappeared, and a load of robes fell onto Tony’s arms. He almost fell over. There were 150 for each of us. The girls’ were silk with gold or silver trim, and a low v-neck. The boys’ were just plain cotton with a hood and a rope-looking belt. The tailor wordlessly handed Kevin our velvet cloaks, Katrina and I’s high-heeled boots, the boy’s black boots, our pointed hats, and gloves.
“ Your total comes to… 800 dollars and 99 cents.”
Great Googley-Moogley!!
We forked over our credit cards, and the tailor rung us up. We stopped at the limo and put our stuff in the trunk.
We stopped at a tavern for our breakfast.
Remind me never to eat their version of pancakes again. Gross!
After that, we got our trunks and our schoolbooks, and stopped at Broomsticks Inc. for our brooms. The Model I got was a Stardust 2002. I had to pay extra money to get this one. The handle changed colors to whatever color that you want. In my case, to match my clothes. Kevin and Tony got racing brooms, God knows why, and Katrina (Kat) got the same one that I did. We got our cats afterward. It took about a half-hour because Kat and I couldn’t decide. They were all so cute!
Finally, we picked one and we were able to go to the mall. (Just for fun.) Julio dropped us off and took our stuff home. I picked up one of those really, really big velvet pillows, a really cute set of bedding, and a large mirror for Mystica. We dragged the boys into DEB and tried on some clothes (and bought some.) The boys literally dragged us into McDonald’s for lunch, despite Kat and I’s protests. When everybody was ready to go, I put my stuff down and called Julio on my cellphone. “ Hey, Julio, come pick us up. We’re at the exit now.” I hit END and closed it. “ He should be here any minute. I LOVE living close to the mall.” Julio drove up and shoved, well, tried to shove our stuff in the trunk. My pillow ended up sitting with us. When we got home, I put every thing that would fit in my trunk, and put the rest in a large duffel bag. I set all of my stuff by the wall and opened my cat’s cage.
I had chosen a black kitten with orange paws and orange tipped ears. “ What should I name you?” I asked absent-mindedly. “ I prefer to be called Spooky-if you don’t mind.” I looked at the little cat. “ You can talk?” “ Of course I can, silly. I’m a witches’ cat.” “ So your name is Spooky?” “ Yup.” “ Cool.” I got up and put my friend’s cd in the stereo. My friend is in a pop group called Meleo. I left Spooky listening to ‘Once Upon A Time’ and walked down the hall. “ Kevin, did you know that our cats could talk?” “ Yea. I found out when Sami started singing to Ludacris.” “ Spooky is down the hall listenin’ to Meleo.” He snorted. Tony came up. “ Mother says that we’re going to a ball tonight.” I perked up. “ It’s a Humane Society Charity Ball.” Kevin sneered.
“ Oh. How fun.”
“ I wouldn’t be talking. You’re going too.” He flinched.
“ What time?”
“ In an hour.”
I ran off to get ready, Katrina followed me in. “ I need a dress too.” We both decided on a dress and changed. I put that hairpiece on, I’m starting to like it, and put a crown on. It was one of those crowns from Claire’s. Katrina did my make-up, and I did hers. Kevin came in with a jeweled collar and leash. I threw my robe on. We were just in our puffy crap and under things! Kat ducked behind the bed. “ Sorry. Here. Spooky is allowed to come.” “ Cool. Is Sami coming?” “ Yea. He’s not too happy about the leash though. I’ll let you get dressed now.” He turned on his heel and left the room. Katrina peeked out from behind the bed. “ Is it safe?” “ Yeah.” We pulled our dresses on and slid those damn high-heels on. I pulled my silk trench coat out of the shopping bag and threw it on the bed. I grabbed my new formal purse (One of those flat purses that don’t have a shoulder strap.) and put some cash and whatever make-up would fit in the main pocket, then we walked downstairs and waited in the parlor.
At the door, we had to pay sixty dollars, for the charity, but the ball was worth it. So far. We ate supper there at about 7:00, and danced afterward.
At 9:00, I was attacked. A shady figure came at me with knife. I grabbed his wrist and twisted as hard as I could. Kevin attacked him from behind, so I let go. But before I could think, the tables turned and the figure was holding a knife to my boyfriend’s throat. “ Call the girl off, or I slit your brother’s throat.” Tony grabbed me by the waist and firmly held me there.” Kevin!” “ Let my brother go. He has no part in this.” Tony commanded. “ Then give me the brat.” He hung his head. “ I can’t. I would give my life before you touched her.” Kevin looked dumbfounded as the man started into his throat. Kat came up behind and held a silk cord to the man’s neck. She twisted and pulled, making him drop the knife and Kevin.
“ Who sent you?” she asked. “ I’m not telling.” She pulled harder and dug her concealed high-heeled boot into his back. “ WHO SENT YOU?” “ The Goddess.” He croaked. Katrina pulled still harder, and the man collapsed, dead. Kevin came running over to me and hugged me. “ Omigod. Kevin, are you hurt?” I lifted his chin to see. He had a gash from where the man had started into his throat. I pressed a napkin to it, grabbed some extras, and ran out to the limo. I sat him down and opened the first aid kit. I washed the cut out as best I could and wrapped gauze around his neck. When I was finished, the cops came.
“ Miss Black, are you alright?” the sheriff commanded. I nodded. “ Is anybody hurt?” I couldn’t speak, so I pointed toward Kevin. The paramedics came over to check it out. “ Miss Black, can you tell me what happened?” Tony interrupted. “ I will. Let her stay here with her boyfriend.” Tony and the cop went off aways, and Tony explained what had happened. Right next to me, Kat was talking with another cop. “The man was cutting into his throat, so I strangled him. Kevin is dear to all of us, and I certainly didn’t want to lose him.”
“ The weapon?” “ Here.” She handed him the silk cord.
“ Where did you get this?” “ I tore it off of my dress.” “ Since it was defense, I’ll let you go. But the next time, you won’t be so lucky.” He walked over to where Tony was. Katrina sat down next to me. “ That was close.” “ Yeah.” Kevin came over and sat down too. “ Are you alright?” he asked. I collapsed into his arms, crying. “ I was so scared. Why would anybody want to kill me?” “ Kill You? He had a knife to MY throat, remember?” He then softened up and kissed me on the forehead. “Ask Tony later.” He cradled me in his arms until Tony returned. “ What the hell were you thinking Tony? You damn near got me killed, your own brother!, and scared Chloe half to death. What’s going on?” “ It wasn’t my fault. I hadn’t expected this when I accepted.” He sat down and put his head in his hands. Katrina rubbed his back.
“Accepted what? Tony, you didn’t answer me. What the hell is going on?” He sat up.
“ Chloe is stronger than the goddess of magic.”
“ What?”
“ In magic, there are three gods, The Goddess of Magic, the Mortal Lord, and the God of Gods, their father. I was chosen by the God of Gods to protect Chloe from his daughter.”
I un-buried myself from Kevin’s white dress shirt. “WHAT? I just found out that I’m a witch, and now I’m stronger than some, goddess that wants to kill me?” Kevin pulled me back toward him. “Shush. Not so loud.” “ I’ll yell as loud as I want, Kevin James.” I warned. “Chloe, take a deep breath and try to calm down. We can’t risk all of these mortals hearing you scream about witchcraft. They’re very jumpy around here.” I took a breath like he told me, and re-buried myself into his shirt. He hesitated a moment before rubbing my back and carrying me to the limo.
“Honey, wake up. We’re home.” I groaned. When I opened my eyes, I was lying on Kevin’s bed. I must have fallen asleep in the limo. Kevin smiled. “ It’s about time.” He gave me one of those kisses before motioning for Kat to come over. “ Can you help her get some pajamas on, then bring her back here? Tony thinks that she should stay with me until we go to Mystica.” Katrina nodded and helped me out of bed.
I could walk perfectly, and put my own pajamas on, Thank You.
When I got back to Kevin’s room, I popped some aspirin and climbed into bed with Kevin. “ Do you think that what he said was true?” I asked softly. “ If it’s not, that would be the first time he’s lied for… sixteen years.” “ So you believe him?” “ Yes.” He put his arm around my waist, and I fell asleep to his steady breathing in my ear.
Today is a living madhouse. Everyone is running this way and that- getting ready to leave tomorrow. I was running from house to house like a little mouse because I kept on forgetting things. When we were done, it was time for dinner. After dinner, we went over our lists, making sure that everything was packed. Kevin ticked off items, and I made sure we had them.
“ Robes,” “ Check.” “ Broom,” “ check.” “ Shampoo and crap,”
“ Check.” “ Anything else?” he scanned the list. “ Nope, we have everything, plus your extras. Get your p.j’s on. We want to leave early.” “ Yes sir.” I gave him a mock military salute. He burst out laughing, and I scurried back to my room. When I returned, Kevin was already half-asleep. I snuggled up with him under the covers and slept.
In the morning, at about 6:00, I heard whispering by the bed. I sat up wearily. Tony stood. “ Damn. We wanted to scare you half out of your wits.” I looked pointedly at Kevin. He grinned and blew a whistle, loudly. Kevin shot up like a bullet. “ What the hell? Tony! “ He got up, and Tony took off running, with Kevin close on his heels. Kat and I started cracking up. “ They look so cute when they do that.” Kevin came back, holding Tony by the neck of his shirt in one hand, and a broken whistle in the other. Kat and I continued our laughing streak. “ That was quick.” I said. Tony wriggled out of his shirt. “ He’s had way too much practice.” “ I wouldn’t be so quick if you didn’t pull something like that once a week.” He threw his shirt at him. I laid back down and pulled the covers up over my face. “ I don’t wanna go to school.” Kevin pulled the blankets off the bed. “ You sound I did during the high school term.” I laughed and pulled my clothes off the nightstand. I him on the butt on the way out, and went to my dressing room to change.
I’ll admit, I had a lot of fun trying to get used to a tube-top, mini skirt, and micro-fiber high-heeled knee-high boots. I let my hair hang at my waist, and started putting our junk in the limo.
When we got to the airport, my plane was ready and waiting. Kevin and Tony put our stuff in the cargo area while Kat and I waited for my pilot. A finger tapped me on the shoulder, and I turned around. “ Are you Chloe Black?”
“ Yes. Are you my pilot?”
“ Yes. I have a problem though.”
“ Oh?”
“My daughter is also attending Mystica, would it be alright if she were to ride with you?”
“ Of course she can. Who do you think I am? The Grinch?”
“ Thanks. Gina!” I gasped. Gina ran in, looked up, and dropped her luggage. “ Chloe?” “ Oh my god. Gina! What the hell are you doing here?” we hugged. “ I just got adopted like last night.” Her adoptive father looked at us like we were crazy. “ We were best friends at the orphanage.” “ Oh. Shall we get going?” “ Yes. KEVIN!” he came running in. I giggled at how much he looked like Sally when he did that. “ This is my friend Gina. Can you put her stuff in the plane?” “ Yeah.” He picked up all of her stuff like it was as light as a feather. Gina stared; dumbfounded. “ That was my boyfriend. And this,” I pulled Kat over. “ Is Katrina. My boyfriend’s brother’s girlfriend.” “ Hi. Just call me Kat. Katrina is way too long.” Gina was looking at me. “ Your boyfriend is hot.” “ DUH! Let’s get on the plane.”
When we were all settled, Kat curled up with Tony, and I curled up with Kevin to watch a movie. Kevin did the cutest thing. Gina was sitting all alone, and he lifted her over to us. We both cuddled up with him! Tony just looked at him and laughed. “ What?” “ We need to get Gina a boyfriend or you’re gonna end up ditching Chloe for her.” He turned red. “ I will not!” I just shook my head. “ Stop fighting, you two and turn the movie on.” Kevin grabbed the remote and hit the button. Gina, Kevin and I all fell asleep watching ‘Titanic’.
Tony woke us up around noon with some sandwiches, and afterward, we all played ‘Twister’. I am the Twister champion! But, Kat beat me. That was so discouraging.
Well, you try being flipped over yourself with your right foot on green and you left on red!
Later, Tony and Kat went into another room, his bedroom, leaving us all alone. How they can do that on a plane is beyond me… Kevin took off his shirt, and his muscles ripped.” It’s getting hot in here.” “ Yeah. Hang on.” I answered, dazed. I walked over to the cockpit and let myself in. It’s my plane after all. Jeff switched on autopilot and turned around. “ What do you need?” “ Can you turn the air conditioning up? We’re getting hot.” He nodded and turned the knob. “ Do you need something to eat or anything?” I asked. “ No. I ate.” “ When?” “ When you, Gina, and Kevin were zonked on your bed.” “ Oh. Okay. I’ll leave you alone now.” I turned and left the room and closed the door behind me. “ He turned the AC up.” “ Good.” Kevin pulled out his laptop, and we chatted with some people. And told some sick ones off. We chatted with some guy who was into the paranormal. Kevin and I acted like we liked it too and found out some interesting tidbits like: ‘ In Africa, they still burn whoever is accused of witchcraft’ Kevin replied with: ‘have you ever been accused of witchcraft?’ ‘ Yes, once. But can I tell you a secret?’ ‘Yeah.’ ‘ They were right.’ ‘What do you mean?’ ‘ I’m a warlock.’ ‘ Normally, people don’t say it right off the bat, but so are my girlfriend and I.’ ‘ really?’ ‘ Yeah. We’re heading towards the school now.’ ‘Mystica?’ ‘Yeah.’ ‘ I’m the Brewing Class teacher.’ ‘ Cool. We look forward to seeing you. Gtg. Bye!’ he logged off and closed the laptop. “ That was freaky.” “ I agree. I’d better start supper huh?” “ Yeah. I’m so hungry, I could eat a horse.” “ Sorry, didn’t bring one. Will steak do?” he sighed. “ I guess.” The sarcasm was so thick that you could cut it with a knife. I giggled and started making our meal. When it was ready, I knocked on Tony’s door. “ Go away.” Came the muffled voice. “ Cover yourself. I’m coming in.” I opened the door. “ What do you want?” Tony barked.
“ Don’t be such a bastard. Supper’s ready.” I turned on my heel and left. Kevin was cutting his steak. “ I told you not to mess with him now.” “ You’re right. I should have just left him alone. I’m sick of his attitude.” Kevin laughed. “ What now?” “ You’re beginning to sound like my mother.” I laughed too. “ Sorry. I guess I’m taking too much responsibility.” He nodded and put his hands around my waist. “ That’s okay.” He kissed me until Gina did her ‘ Hello, I’m all alone here’ cough. Then he pulled away and sat down on a humongous beanbag chair to eat. I finished making my plate, yelled at Tony to get his butt out here, and then joined him. Tony and Katrina came out in their robes, ate, and went back to the bedroom. Gina joined her new dad up front and Kevin and I well, I’ll just put it this way. I’m not a virgin anymore=J
Chapter 8
Tony woke us up, laughing his fool head off. Kevin sat up wearily. “ What?
“ You.”
“ What?”
“ You two yell at us for it, and yet here you are.”
Kevin looked down and pulled the covers back up over my chest; waking me up. “We decided to try it. I see what you mean.” He grinned evilly. I smacked him on the leg. “ Ow.” “ Shut up and let me sleep- and what do you mean me? It was all you boy.” I rolled up in the covers, leaving Kevin totally uncovered. He grabbed his pillow faster than lightning and covered up. Kat burst out laughing. “ Ooh la la.” Kevin turned about as red as red can get. I pulled the pillow off of my head. “ Back off, girlie, he’s all mine.” Tony tapped Kat on the shoulder and motioned for her to follow. They walked back into their room to change, laughing, and Kevin and I followed suit. Gina came out as we were changing. “ Oops! I am so sorry.” Kevin dove behind me. “ That’s alright. You didn’t know that we were changing.” “ I’ll leave now.” She ran back into her room. We finished getting ready and called Gina back out. But before I could say anything, the speaker came on. “ Chloe, get your crap together. We are 30 minutes away from the airport in Germany. “ “ Thanks Jeff! “ I looked at Kevin.
“ You heard him, boy, get moving.” He gave me a ridicule salute and dashed off. By the time we were ready, Jeff was telling us to sit down and buckle up. He landed the plane, said good-bye, and took off again. We hailed down a taxi and I took over.
God, my hips hurt!
“ Guten Tag, spriechen se amirikanish?” “Ja.” “ Good. Can you take us to the village that’s north of here?” “ Sure hop in.” We filled another taxi with our stuff and hopped into the first one. I sat on Kevin’s lap so everybody else could fit, and leaned back onto him. He grinned and started kissing down my neck. I glanced at Gina. She rolled her eyes. “ Not now.” I whispered in his ear. He let up. “ We’re there.” The driver informed us. I paid him while everybody got his or her stuff. I swung my duffel bags over my shoulder and Kevin helped me carry my trunk. In front of us were two very large gates. They automatically swung open as we approached, and three men came out and helped us carry our stuff to our rooms. I shared G13 with Gina, Kat, and some girl named Trixie. I unpacked my stuff, putting the round velvet pillow in the corner by the window, and my mirror above the nightstand. I made my bed, dragged my empty trunk into the closet and walked down to Kevin’s room. As I was walking down the hall, a very large boy slammed the door to Kevin’s room, and just about knocked me over. “ Sorry.” He grumbled. I knocked on Kevin’s door.
“ Kevin, let me in.” “ Hang on.” He opened the door, blood dripping from his lip. “ Hon, what happened?” “ My roommate and I got into a fight over top bunk. I am now on the bottom, living with the fear of his falling through.” I grabbed a damp washcloth from the bathroom and pointed toward his bed. “ Sit.” As I started cleaning up the blood, the boy who almost knocked me over came into the room. “ Who are you?” he demanded. “ Kevin’s girlfriend. Got a problem with that, or can I clean up his lip without getting decked?” “ No, I mean yes, I mean- I won’t deck you, you’re fine.” he looked almost shy as he turned away. Kevin snorted. “ He’s jealous.” “ Honey, stop that. That’s probably what got you this swollen lip to start with. Maybe I should let Gina have you...” “ NO!” “ Alright then. Stop that ‘tude.” “ Fine.” I continued washing his lip, then got the ice pack out of the bathroom cupboard. I pressed it to his lip as I sat down next to him. “ Ouch.” “ I know, I know. Hold it on there. “ I motioned for him to open his mouth, and I checked to see if Mike had knocked any teeth loose. “ Must not have been a very hard blow. He didn’t loosen any teeth.” Mike looked at me.
“ You act like his mother. “ Kevin shook his head. “ Only when she’s pissed at me for getting in a fight.” Mike laughed. I rolled my eyes and took the icepack off of Kevin’s lip. The swelling had gone down a bit. “ C’mon you two, let’s head down to lunch.” We left the room, and Mike closed the door. He put his hand on Kevin’s shoulder. “ Look man, I’m sorry about the lip. You okay?” Kevin nodded. “ I’ve been hit harder.” I automatically thought about this morning and the smack on the leg, and when he got home from jail.“ Alright.” He took his hand off Kevin’s shoulder, and they chatted as we walked down to the cafeteria. What do you know? Big men do have a bit of a soft side. I took a look at Mike. He was very tall. Kevin was 5’11” and he had to stand on tiptoes to reach this guy’s shoulders. He was very muscular, and pretty thin. He was wearing a blue tank top and long khaki shorts. Not too bad. He was actually quite cute. I grinned. Kevin looked at me.” What are you grinning about?” “ I think Gina is just going to love Mike.” Kevin looked at Mike. “ I think you’re right.” We walked into the cafeteria, and sure enough, Gina’s jaw dropped. We got our food and sat down at the table with them. “ Gina, this is Mike, One of Kevin and Tony’s roommates. Mike, this is Gina, my best friend. Be nice.” Mike had a dreamy look is his eyes. I looked at him in surprise. I knew Gina would like him, but I didn’t think that he would think that she’s hot! Kevin had the same look that I did. “ Nice to meet you.” He said. Tony looked up. “ What happened to your lip bro?” “ I lost the battle of Top Bunk.” Tony just laughed. We ate lunch, and then headed back to our rooms. Gina and Mike hit it off immediately. They chatted the whole way back to our room, and then Mike left and went back to his room. Gina closed the door behind her.
“ Oh, my, god. He is so dreamy.” “ Yeah. And can you believe that he gave Kevin that swollen lip?” “ He did?” I stopped brushing my hair and walked over to her. “ Look, I know you’re in love for the first time, so here’s some advice. Move slow. Don’t go too fast. You may think that he’s the guy of your dreams, but everybody has their faults. You just have yet to find his.” “ Amen to that.” Kat added. Gina looked at me. “ Thanks. I’ll try.” “ Since we’re on this subject, “ Kat said “ Sit down. “ we obeyed. “ I suppose that I should tell you this. I haven’t told Tony yet, but…” I cut in “ You’re not!” she nodded. “ Oh my god! You’re pregnant?” “ Yes. Shush. I don’t want everybody to know just yet. I’m telling Tony tonight.” I just sat there. Could that happen to me? No. He used protection. I’m sure of it. I fell back on the bed. Katrina glanced at me. “ What’s up with you? You’re not the one who’s gonna give birth in nine months- Are you?” I shook my head.
“ I’d hope not.” “ Did he…” “ Yes.” “ Then you’re fine.” “ I hope you’re right.” The boys knocked on the door. I got up and let them in. Katrina hid the chips that she was eating under the bed. Tony looked at her “What was that?” “ Nothing.” “ Was that food?” “ Maybe.” “ We just had lunch.” He sighed. “ What’s going on?” she flinched. “ Come with me.” She pulled him out into the hallway and closed the door. Kevin looked at me. “ Listen.” I said.
“ YOU”RE WHAT?” we heard Tony yell. “ What?” Kevin asked.
“ Kat is pregnant, and Tony just found out. “ “ Shit. “ Kevin ran outside. We followed. Kevin was standing in front of Kat.
“ Don’t do this again Tony. It happened once remember?” Tony looked as wild as an animal. Mike put Tony in an arm-lock. He calmed down; helpless. Kevin came over and put his hands on his shoulders. “ Do you love Kat?” he nodded. “ More than anything?” “ Yes.” “ Would you ever do anything to hurt her?” “No.” “ Then calm down. You’re old enough to handle this responsibly. If you really love her, don’t do it.” “ I won’t.” “Promise?” he nodded and Mike let go. Tony started crying and held Kat in his arms. “ I’m sorry, so sorry.” Kat rubbed his back “ That’s okay. It’s natural to be upset, especially if you weren’t supposed to do it in the first place.” Kevin breathed a sigh of relief and motioned for us to follow him and leave them alone for a little bit. We went back to his room, and I sat down on his bed. “ What just happened?”
“ Last time he made a girl pregnant, he was sixteen, and too young to be doing it anyways, so he beat the girl up. She filed a lawsuit and sued us.” I gasped. “ Kat is very lucky. He was just about to hit her when I came out.” “ Oh my god.” I went up to him and picked up his hand in my own. “ You would never do that right?” “ Of course not. You’re not though right?” “ No.” he pulled me close. “ I would never do anything to hurt you, no matter what. I love you way too much. You’re my whole life. If I did something like that to you, I would kill myself.” I started to cry. “ Don’t say that.” He held me closer and cradled me in his arms. Mike and Gina just stared, too shocked to say anything. We walked down to my room and I sat down on my big pillow. Kevin sat down next to me and we cuddled. Tony spoke up.
“ I’m sorry I scared you all like that. I don’t know what came over me. Kevin, I’m glad that you came out when you did, I mean, there’s no telling what I would have done. Thanks.” Kevin smiled. “ No problem bro. Just don’t make me do it again okay?” Tony nodded. There was a knock on the door, and Tony opened it. It was the head witch. “ Is there a problem up here? I heard yelling.” She walked into our room and Kevin removed his hand from my chest. “ No ma’am. There’s nothing wrong here.” “ Then why did I hear yelling? Hmmm?” “ There wasn’t any yelling here.” I lied. “ Bullshit. I heard yelling coming specifically from this room.” Tony fessed up. “ My girlfriend told me something, and I got a little bit out of hand.” “ What was that?” “ That we’re going to have a kid.” He blushed. She threw her hands up and left the room. “ Teenagers.” We all burst out laughing as Tony shut the door.
Trixie arrived after dinner when we were all in my room chatting. She opened the door. “ Hi y’all. Oh dear, do I have the wrong room?” I sat up off of Kevin’s lap, pulling my shirt up a bit to conceal a hickey. “ Are you Trixie?” she nodded. “ Then you’re in the right place. Kevin,” he was already putting her bags by the bed. “ Why are all the boys here?” she asked. “ They are our boyfriends. “ Gina and Mike blushed at that comment. I introduced everybody, and Trixie started to unpack. “ So, where are you all from?” “ Mexico. “ we all answered in unison. Mike said “ Texas.” Immediately following our chorus. “ You’re from Texas?” he nodded. “ Me too.” Gina smiled. “ What do you know? What city are you two from?” “ Houston.” They answered just like we did. Despite my thoughts, Mike didn’t oogle for Trixie and kissed Gina. Kevin looked as shocked as I did. When she was done unpacking, she shoved the trunk into the closet and sat down on her bunk.
After a few minutes of silence, Trixie looked down at us.
“ You’re not going to chat anymore?” Kevin blushed. “ We were talking about private things.” “ Oh. Well, I’m going down to see if Diana is unpacked yet.” She hopped off of the bunk and left the room. “ Bitch.” Mike muttered. “ What?” Gina asked. “ Did you see the way she looked at me? She gave me that ‘ we have so much in common. Wanna date me?’ look. That’s why I kissed you. I want you. Not her, and I wanted to show her that.” Gina patted him on the head jokingly. “ Good boy.” We all laughed, except Kevin, who was kissing down my neck right then. Then he came up to my ear and whispered very softly, “ Let’s go back to my room.” I smiled and got up. We walked across the room and Tony giggled like a little schoolgirl. Kevin rolled his eyes. “ Cover for us.” “ Whatever. Go have fun.” Kevin grinned. We snuck down the hallway, and he opened his door.
How we did it on a bunk bed still boggles me… We both stripped and I laid down on his bed. He came toward me and … hit his head. I laughed. He shook it off and came to my mouth. Everything after that is none of your business. Tony came in a couple hours later with my robe. Kevin looked up. “ I don’t walk in on you.” He growled.“ It’s lights out time. Here Chloe.” He held up my robe and I slipped into it while Kevin pulled his boxers on. Tony folded my clothes and shoved them under the bed. “ You can get them tomorrow. Scoot.” I went back to my room and slid my pajamas on. Gina brushed the knots out of my hair.
“ What was it like?” “ Amazing. I wasn’t a virgin, but it all seemed totally new to me. The curve of his backside…His lips on mine,” I was about to go further when Trixie came back.
“ Have you been gone this whole time Trix?” “ No. I went to get a snack. I didn’t eat supper. Where were you?” I actually blushed.
” Kevin’s room.” I replied meekly. “ Oh.” She winked at me and bit into her apple. When Gina was done, I crawled into my bed and fell asleep.
Katrina’s alarm clock woke us up at 7:00. We took turns in the shower then looked at our schedule.
9:30 am- All groups at breakfast.
10:00 am- A- Brewing Class
B-History of Magic
C-flying Class
D-Mortal Classes
E-Simple Spells and Defensive Charms (s.s.d.c)
12:00 pm- All groups at lunch.
12:30 pm- A- s.s.d.c
B-Brewing Class
C-History of Magic
D-Flying Class
E- Mortal Classes
2:30 pm- A-Mortal Classes
B-Flying Class
C-Brewing Class
D-s.s.d.c
E-History of Magic
4:30 pm- A-History of Magic
B-s.s.d.c
C-Mortal Classes
D-Brewing Class
E-Flying Class
6:30 pm- All groups at Supper
7:30 pm- you may visit with friends- Ask head witch for sleepovers.
9:00- 10:00- snack bar.
10:30- lights out.
· All classes will be the same each day.
· Extra-curricular activities will be explained at your first flying class.
“What’s this ABCDE crap?” I asked. Kat pulled out another sheet. I scanned the list for our names. We were in group C, all of us. I put my school robes on and put my hair in pigtail buns. It didn’t say that we had to actually wear those hats. I pulled my hose and boots on and did my make-up. That’s funny, at first; I hated the crap, now it’s essential. I put my schoolbooks and stuff in my ‘Angel’ messenger bag and set it on the bed while I waited for Kat and Gina. Trixie had already gone down to meet Diana, whoever she is, at breakfast, so we picked up the boys on our way down.
Kevin kept on fidgeting. “ What’s wrong?” I asked as I slurped my orange juice. “ I’m used to pants. I feel weird in this-dress looking thing.” I laughed. “ Poor baby.” “ You got that right.” I stole a glance over at Trixie and Diana. They both giggled and laughed and talked to two boys. They must be her bodyguards or something, because I don’t even know her and I already hate her. Kevin looked too. “ Who’s that?” “ That is Trixie and the famous Diana that she keeps talking about. Diana this, Diana that. I don’t even know her and I’m sick of her.” All of the sudden, Diana looked up and stole a glance at Kevin. She didn’t even notice me. She looked him up and down, and then got up to come over here. I looked away. Kevin glanced at me quizzically.
“ She’s coming. She thinks that you’re hot.” He nodded and acted casual. When she was a few steps away, he got up and stretched. “ I’m going to the bathroom. Be back in a minute.” He left the room. He’s good.
I faced Diana. “ Hello. Are you the famous Diana we’ve been hearing all about?” Mike snorted. Trixie muttered something in her ear and pointed to Mike. She nodded. Diana went over behind Mike and tilted his chair back. I could see him resisting the urge to hit her. “ Why don’t you like Trixie, huh? Not good enough for you?” Gina stood. I shot a steely look at her. She sat back down, confused. I stood up instead.
“ Leave him alone.” She looked at me. “ Who are you, his mother?” I looked at Mike and he nodded. I stood up straight. “ No, actually, I’m his sister. You wanna make something of it?” “ You’re not his sister. You don’t even look alike.” “ Oh, you can’t see the resemblance? Our skinny bodies, our muscles…” she looked at my arms. They were pretty muscular, but not like he-woman muscles.
“ Your muscles don’t even compare to his. Now back off you anorexic bitch.” Anorexic Bitch! That was the last straw. I grabbed her by the collar of her low-cut robes. “ You listen to me. I’m his sister, and I’m taking care of him right now. If you want to keep on nagging him, I’m sure you’ll have a very nice funeral, considering there’s enough left of you when I’m through.” She gulped. Mike stood and pulled my hand off of her shirt. “ I think she got the point sis.” “ I don’t know. “ I glanced at Kevin walking back in.
Diana saw me and immediately found my weak spot. She was gonna do something to piss me off. She whistled and her boys came over. They both looked pretty strong, but not like Mike. Kevin saw them and put himself in front of me. “ Don’t touch her.” He said through clenched teeth. They looked meaningfully at Diana. She nodded, and they both took one of Kevin’s arms and began to carry him away. To her bedroom, no doubt. To my surprise, no matter how much he struggled, they kept a very firm grip. I was so mad, that I was close to tears. I looked around. Surely there was a teacher or monitor or something. There wasn’t. I got ready to run after them, but Tony put a hand on my shoulder. “ He can handle himself. “ “ Not with those big thugs holding him. “ he pursed his lips. “You’re probably right.” he walked over to the other side of the room and grabbed his other roommate. He nodded and Tony and Mike went off to get Kevin back. I hope they know what they’re doing. Kat, Gina, and I sat down, and the boy sat down in front of me. We waited in silence until Tony came back. I looked up, he shook his head.
“ The door is locked, deadbolt and all. We tried to get in, but it was no use.” “ But classes are in fifteen minutes. And, he’s mine, not hers.” I wailed. “ I know, I know. We tried hon, the only way in is with a key.” He paused. “ That’s it. “ he cupped his hands to his mouth.
“ Who here rooms with Diana?” One girl came over. “I do. Why?” “ We need to borrow the key for a minute. Diana is seducing my brother, and we need to get in.” “ I’ll go with you. She is such a slut.” We walked up to the room, and I could hear Kevin’s moans for help. I started to cry as she unlocked the door. Mike held me firmly around the waist so I wouldn’t try to kill Diana. The girl opened the door and Tony rushed in. “ Give him back.” she was in the middle of something, and she looked up. “ Why should I?”
I fought to get out of Mike’s grasp, but he held me there as if I was merely a feather. I looked at Kevin. He was tied to the bed, Diana’s guards on each side to make sure that he doesn’t get loose. His mouth was taped shut and… I started crying into Mike’s shirt. I couldn’t take this. He rubbed my back. “ It’ll be fine. Don’t worry.” “ Because, you slut, he’s taken. Can’t you see that?” she rolled her eyes. “ Ann, why did you even let them in?” “ Because I hate you. All you’ve done is seduce men since you got here. Every hour on the hour. I’m sick of it.” “ Grow up, church. Now, where was I?” she continued. Tony looked wildly. There was nothing that he could do. She was a woman, and he couldn’t hit her. Mike did the same thing. But Ann took charge. She yanked Diana off of the bed and threw her to the floor. “ You leave him alone. This isn’t going to make him love you, if a man really loves you, he’ll do this voluntarily. You’ll just have to be a little nicer and a little less slutty, and maybe it’ll work. Now for the love of Christ, get some clothes on. Class is in ten minutes.” She undid Kevin’s ropes, and he ran over to me. Ann handed him his clothes, and he yanked them on. I ripped the tape off of his mouth and threw it on the floor. Diana’s bo-guards had seized Ann, but there was nothing they could do. It was the same case. They couldn’t hit her. “ What do we do with this one?” Diana stood. “ Leave her.” They threw her across the room, and Tony caught her.
“ You alright?” I asked Kevin. “ Yes. I now know how it feels to be scared out of your wits.” I hugged him, still dripping tears.
Chapter 10
Our first class was flying class. Our teacher was the head witch, Professor Starre. “ Everybody whistle to your brooms.” We all whistled and the brooms levitated about two and a half feet above to ground. “ Okay, hop on. Boys, straddle it, girls, sit with your legs to the side.” I sat down. My feet could still touch the floor, but I left it. She pointed to Kat and I. “ You two have more advanced models. A one-word command will do. Demonstrate.” I shrugged. “ Up.” The broom floated up to a height of seven feet, and then I told it to go back down. Kat did the same. “ Alright. Now do it how everybody else does. Everybody, push off of the ground with your foot.” I pushed off and watched Kevin fall onto the wisely put gym mats on the floor. Nova turned around. “ That’s alright boy, try again.” I could hear Diana and Trixie snickering. He climbed back up and stayed there, swaying, but on.
“ Good. Now shift your weight to the front hand to go forward. To stop, even the weight. “ We all did as we were told, and a lot of people fell off. Gina was beside Mike and when she fell, she hit Mike, who fell also. Gina landed on Mike, and they both laughed. They whistled and Mike lifted Gina back on her broom. He climbed on his own, and they tried again. “ Now, to climb upward, shift the weight to the back hand.” Everybody fell off that time. “ Alright. I’m going to open this door. Fly outside and wait at the tree.” She opened the door, and we all sped out. We stopped at the tree obediently. “ I’m going to issue a challenge. The first one to fly up and touch a cloud gets their Critter Class creature early. Let me explain. Next week, we will no longer have flying class, but Critter Class instead. You will all get an animal. You will treat it like your pet or best friend until the day it dies. Now, go fly around, or, if you’re brave enough, touch a cloud.” Kevin looked at me. I nodded and we started to fly upward. It took a couple of minutes, but we made it.