THE FERALS 


By Tessa Harvey


Jake approached the play equipment somewhat absent-mindedly, turning over a physics problem in the work set for the leavers' grade. Perhaps it was too difficult for some of the students? 

Suddenly he realised he was about to bump into someone. Looking up, he realised it was Alice and halted abruptly. The two adults spoke at the same time. "Sorry, I should..." Both broke off, feeling awkward. Jake said, "Alice, I owe you an apology. I haven't exactly been Mr. Nice Guy lately."

That sounded so lame that he blushed, embarrassed. A smile quirked Alice's lips. "I was going to say I should have been more interested, especially when Brodie disappeared for a few hours."

Alice looked up at Jake. She felt he was begging her to understand. Their eyes held and locked for a few seconds. Then they became aware of the silence. 

Sophie and Brodie were staring at them and holding hands. The adults both felt remorse.

"How about we go for a meal together?" Jake asked, naming a fast food place nearby.
"Yes, yes!" the children yelled, jumping up and down.
Alice laughed. "Fine with me!" 

They realised they had a lot to talk about and even though the children could not play on any equipment, they still played around and joked. And the adults renewed their friendship.

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