FLAMES

EPISODE EIGHT 8:CAMPING

"Yes, it's in the car," I said.

"You're going camping? You didn't tell me," Marion said.

"Since when have we been that close?" I asked.

"Sorry," he said.

"Michael, he is your older brother. Show some respect," Mama said.

"Tell him to mind his own business," I said.

When I was done with breakfast, I stood up to leave. "Bye, I'm off to school," I said.

"Maria, hurry up! You are always late for school," Mom said.

"Not all the time," she said, getting angry at the food.

HADIZAH'S POV.

I freaking love my school. It was my first camping trip ever, and I am so excited. The buses carrying us were two and fully air-conditioned. The bus looked very elegant to my taste, even though some of them were still disgusted with the thought of living in the forest.

I heard Rose lamenting, "He said he was going to be running late, but not this late."

From the tone of it, I knew she was talking about her boyfriend. A few minutes later, Ethan arrived.

"I'm sorry, babe. I didn't know I was going to be this late," he said, kissing her cheek.

"You know I can't stay mad at you. Apology accepted. Let's head in if you don't want the others to leave us behind," she said, holding his hand, and they both entered the bus.

"I hate camping," Ava said tiredly.

"Hey, you do not get to ruin my first day of camping, okay? Now smile and let's go," I told her.

"Sir, yes, sir," she said, as if she was in the military. She is very funny.

When we got into the bus, Ava and I were luckily together.

"I'm so happy we are together. It's such a coincidence. This is so cool," she said.

"I love it also. It's like we are meant to be together," I said, side-hugging her.

"Okay, kids, we move in ten minutes," Miss Melissa said.

"I'm here," I heard a certain husky, annoying voice.

I surveyed the bus and realized the only seat available was the one beside... Oh God, this is not good, I thought.

"Oh, how lovely for you to be on time, Hamilton," Jefferson said.

"When are you ever going to be on time, Jefferson asked," with authority.

"Seriously, does your stupidity have limit or is today a special occasion," Michael asked, rudely.

"Hamilton, why were you late," Jeffrey asked with authority.

"How about I stick my answer in your face?" he said, with such an attitude, I thought.

"Would it kill you to be nice?" Jeff said.

"Would it kill you to act like the vice-principal's son?" he retorted back with a death glare.

"Don't tell me they are going to start in the bus again. Oh, Allah (God), help," I muttered.

He sat down, and the only advantage I have is that there were arm supports. I'm okay as long as he doesn't mess with me.

I started chanting some adhkar.

"What are you saying?" Ava asked, looking confused.

"Oh, that? It's just a way of begging my lord to keep me safe and sound," I said confidently.