AFTERMATH

Deserted! said Manuel Hernandez Why should it be deserted, I thought they were
nursing him!
No, said Miss Campbell Mr Henderson didnt come to school today because of the
news that the baby disappeared, since then I didnt see him. Well last time I saw him
was on Friday, explained Miss Campbell.
The class was thoroughly silent, Miss Campbell surprised by the silence carried on So
from now on, I will
Did you see him throughout the weekend, Miss? interrupted a classmate.
No, I didnt and dont interrupt me, William! Miss Campbell snapped at the boy, the
boy sat down blushing with embarrassment.
So from now on, Ill be your cover teacher until Mr Henderson returns,
The news said Alexander Henderson so Mr Henderson must be the babys father.
whispered another classmate to his friend, the one that was embarrassed.
Manuel heard a creak behind him and turning around so quickly, his neck cracked.
He winced but the pain left him as quick as it came. He stared at the door; standing at
the doorway of the classroom was a man around 6 foot, little beard sprouting out of his
moustache, with a black ponytail on the back of his head.
Mr Miller, may I help you? stuttered Miss Campbell. Patrick Miller, the principal
shook his head No thanks Miss Campbell, Could I please borrow Manuel Hernandez
for a minute,
Of course, Manuel off you go. she said.
Manuel was surprised, what does the principal want from him? Does he know about
what happened on Saturday? Where is Pete? He was overloaded with questions. The
answers are coming, Manuel thought. He walked to the principal. Manuel was scared of
his eyes; they seem to see through him.
Go to my office boy, Ill be right with you Manuel didnt take a moment to hesitate, he
ran down to the corridor to the principals office.
Where are the police? Manuel though. The corridors were empty. He grasped the handle
to the door, turned it slowly and opened him. He gasped. Someone was there and that
person heard the gasp and wheeled around.
It was Pete Herring, Manuels best friend, a stocky black teenager. He was also told to
come to the office. Manuel entered the office. It smelt slightly of paint.
Pete! Whats going on here? said Manuel.
I think were done for, he said
What? Why?
Someone from the group coming out of that pub saw us,
Oh my god! The saw us do the... asked Manuel.
...The handbrake turn, yes,
Oh shit, what gonna happen now?
I dont know,

The principal came inside and sat down. Manuel shivered again because that stare was
on him.
Right, where were you two on Saturday night? said the principal.
Pete and Manuel were quiet.
Answer me! said the principal loudly, banging his table.
At the nightclub. said Manuel with a jump.
What time did you leave the nightclub?
Midnight,
Where did you go after that?
We went home,
Did you drive?
Yes,
What was the make of the car?
BMW,
Colour?
Both Pete and Manuel both flush with anxiety. How are they gonna get out of this one?
Ah... hello... Earth to Peter and Manuel. said the principal, snapping his fingers.
Y-yes sir.
What was the colour? C-O-L-O-U-R.
Err... silver-ish?said Pete.
Aaah! Silver-ish! Okay, was there anyone else with you in the car?
Thats it, they thought. They gonna have to lie to get out of this one.
No, said Pete.
Dont lie to me! said the principal angrily You stole the car and it was found near the
farmhouse. I cannot believe you two committed this atrocity and even trying to lie about
it! Thats it! I expel you two until further notice, now get out of my office! yelled the
principal.
But-Manuel began.
No buts! Get out now!
Manuel and Pete dashed out of the office without any backward glance. They ran down
the corridor and out of the exited into the sun-soaked street.
I cant believe were expelled, Ill never drive a car that I dont know anything about.
Having fun driving all of sudden some baby appears at the back and throws us into a
deep shit! moaned Manuel.
Look whos here, Miss Im-So-Smart said Pete.
Maddie was hurrying to meet them across the street.
Whats up? said Maddie.
Nothing, replied Manuel.
Hmm... Oh I know! Youre expelled right? Maddie blurted out.
Damn, you a mind reader or some how do you know? said Pete
The look on your faces. Who else would be walking away from the school they go to
or used to go to at this time and have that defeated look on their faces? Especially teens
like you guys. I bet your disciplinary records will go on for pages and pages. said
Maddie.
Okaaayy. What are you doing out here? said Manuel.

On my way to school, been helping Dad move home, said MAlan

Moving! Are you moving house? said Manuel
Yeah, I live right here in the city, hate the outskirts, you know, I wanna be right in the
city. Alright guys see ya later said MAlan
Bye. said Manuel
Good riddance said Pete, under his breath.
Manuel and Pete walked rest of the way until they reached the crossroads, until they
had to part because they live on either side of Warwick Street.
Manuel walked few metres when he heard a siren, he dived for the nearest bush, but
realised it was only a fire engine. He jumped out and walked rest of the way. He was
across the street from his house when he saw a convertible sedan chasing a red Corsa.
The passenger was a black man sticking his head holding a 9mm gun. Manuel thought
the person was going to do a drive-by. The passenger was shouting Alan, drive faster
you moron. Manuel shook his head and walked across the house through his front
door to the living room.
Mum, have you seen my he froze. For a moment he thought he was dreaming. He
scratched himself. He is awake. His Mum was there. She was watching the news. The
farmhouse was on TV. The news anchor was explaining but Manuel was not listening.
He slowly tiptoed out of the room to the bottom of the staircase and started climbing.
His feet barely touched the staircase when his mother bellowed MANUEL
HERNANDEZ, GET YOUR ARSE HERE. He went back to the living room. He looked
at the TV and froze again. The farmhouse picture has vanished. Instead, the picture of
two 15-year-old boys showed up. The faces of Manuel Hernandez and Pete Herring.
Explain yourself, boy said his Mum
What I do, mum said Manuel
Dont mum me boy! said his Mum angrily You know exactly what you did
Well, I had a ride on my friends car, said Manuel
Your friends car or that houses car, said his Mum Listen
Manuel was straining his ears to listen, but he somehow gone deaf for two seconds, he
cleaned his ears and listened, The search is still on for three month old Alexander
Henderson, who was missing for two days was since last seen on Saturday in silver
BMW. These two boys, Manuel and Petes faces reappeared are in connection with the
kidnapping the baby and the joyriding of the car which was found in the forest near the
farmhouse on Sunday Manuel was frozen again. The witness who wished not to be
named was in the pub that night. He said he saw two boys drive past and saw them do a
stunt that involves turning the car around 180 degrees, which is called a handbrake
stunt. Now the weather said the newscaster.
Manuels Mum stood there, waiting for some answer. All he said was true, except
that dumb witness must have been hallucinating for all I care, I didnt do no flaming
stunt!
So I see, and one more thing, said his mum.
What? said Manuel.
What are you doing here? asked his mum.
I live here, mum,

You idiot! Why arent you in school? barked his mum.

Oherr We kinda err,
Err... what? What? What? demanded his mum.
We got expelled, said Manuel with a tinge of fear.
We? Who else got expelled? asked his mum.
Pete, replied Manuel.
Okay then, why did you and your friend get expelled? asked his mum.
The principal pulled me out of my lesson and me and Pete were questioned of what
happened on Saturday, said Manuel And the principal started shouting at us and
accusing us of lying and immediately expelled us for nowt,
That is very shameful thing you did. Dont you realise youre on the news? The police
might arrest you. Whose idea was it to go there anyway? his mum bellowed.
Im sorry, Mom. But look, it wasnt my fault
Look I dont care whos fault is it. When are you going to take responsibility for your
actions?
Im sorry, Mum.
Im sorry How many times am I gonna to hear that? When are you gonna grow up?.
Youre grounded for the week, No TV, stereo or PlayStation until further notice. Now go
to your room!
Manuel had no objection. Tomorrow he will call at Petes house early in the morning and
go tell the principal the truth.
Next day, Manuel scampered off to Petes house. They both went to school. Straight to
the principal office and went straight through the door. The principal was jotting on a
piece of paper.
Sir, we can explain. We were not alone but it was the baby in the car. We didnt know
said Manuel, Pete was next to him.
First of all, you should knock when you come in and I know about the baby in the car,
the principal began, without looking up.
If you did know this, why did you expel us, said Pete
Because you said you were alone in the car, whereas you were not, said the principal
You saw the news yesterday, sir, said Manuel
Yes I did, the principal said.
Okay Are we expelled now? asked Manuel.
I have no time for nonsensical chatter, I expelled you two yesterday, why did you even
bother turning up to school? replied the principal.
Please sir, please give us another chance. We had to lie cause we couldnt handle the
truth said Manuel
No you blatantly lied answered the principal, finally looking up.
Alright then, were sorry. Sorry sir. Please we thought we were alone in the car. We
didnt even know that baby was in the car anyway right until we finally stopped
driving, said Pete.
Okay, youre not expelled just because you said sorry, so off you go. Im busy here,
said the principal.
Thats it? You forgave us? Just for saying sorry, you call off the whole thing? said Pete.

Yes. Anyway you free to go, now leave before I change my mind.
Manuel and Pete raced for the door.
Manuel and Pete were relieved. They were not expelled. The spent the rest of the day
in relief and away for suspicion. At the assembly the next morning, the principal
reviewed his decision and declared the duo innocent. The next few days was getting
better. The baby was not found yet. The witness was arrested and Manuel and Pete were
announced innocent on the news. His mother apologised for the telling off Manuel. Its
okay, Im innocent after all said Manuel. The witness was in fact called Bruce Miller, the
principals brother. The principal was shocked about this.
My own brother! My own flesh and blood! How could he do this? I am stunned! In fact,
I have no brother! said Mr Miller wincing with hatred. With that, Patrick left the police
station, shock and hatred following him. Miss Campbell was waiting outside with the
silver BMW with a passenger at the back.
Want a ride, Patrick? she said.
Thanks, Millicent, Just drop me off at my street, will you please, he said. He sat down,
tired, next to the passenger which happens to be
The baby.
Mr Henderson was sitting next to the teacher in the front seat. He is a man in his fifties
with balding hair.
Oh! Hello Edward. Where have you been? said Mr. Miller
Oh hi, Patrick, Ive been busy, Police were at my house, said Mr. Henderson.
Tell us what happened! said Mr. Miller.
Well to start with, I thought about taking Alex to see the city centre. So when I finished,
I took a detour and went to the pub for a pint. I went there, cars were piled on the kerbs
either side of the street, so I have to drive a block away and park it near the nightclub. So
I was thirsty and also hungry and I forgot to take Alex with me. I went it there and saw
your brother sitting and we were chatting until it was half past eleven. I rushed outside,
ran, and ran to the nightclub. However, the time I reached there. The car was gone. I felt
like I will be spending the night in the street. Then Bruce phoned me and said he saw
someone drive past with my car.
So what did you do next? Mr. Miller said
I caught the bus and got off and walked rest of the way home. I was taking off my coat
and shoes when the doorbell rang. I answered it and saw Alex and though. I had better
go and live at the city. I informed the police of this incident and took the day off for the
police were at my new house, said Mr Henderson.
Four blocks away, Pete was at Manuels house playing the PlayStation. Free of charge,
feel like a bleeding criminal, innit! said Pete.
Yep, Mr Henderson better not try that again. Setting us up. He set himself up, not us.
Maddie must his daughter, said Manuel You know Peter, after all this fuss and this
snitching which got us nearly arrested, I going on holiday for the half-term. To my
cousin, Juan Hernandez. And I think I remember he told that he wants to move here
later,
Oh okay. Say hi to him for me. said Pete

Alright. replied Manuel.

So, they continued playing without a worry in the world.

WARWICK STREET
William was standing outside the school; feeling embarrassed by the
continuous starring of the passers by as he was standing in front of the
school gates in his school uniform and he could have swore he saw a
smiling face looking at him through a window across the street. He saw
the local shopkeeper from the shop on Boulder Avenue. The
shopkeeper stopped and William spoke.
Mr Johnson... school closed? Gate not open? Nobody in? W-w-what is
going on? Has school burned down? Has someone died?! asked
William nervously.
Whoa there young blood? Slow down, said Mr Johnson. He is a tall,
powerfully built, Nigerian man in his forties.
What day is it man? I dont have time,
Look at those kids, Mr Johnson said pointing at a pack of twelve year
olds Tell me are they wearing uniform?
No, said William
DO they look like theyre going to school?
Umm... No, he paused and looked at Mr Johnson and begins to blush.
Then Mr Johnson began to laugh. I cant believe you said that, he
said.
William began to walk away.
Hey Will, he said.
What?! William said.
Never ever come to school on a half-term, man. he said
William was sulking all the way to his house round the corner off the
street where the corner shop is. He was past the corner shop, no sign
of Mr Johnson. He went on until he bumped into a familiar face.
Pete, said William.
Hey man. Whats happening? said Pete.
Nothing, he said.
I just passed Mr Johnson. He told me you thought today was a school
day. To be honest I thought it was myself, said Pete.
You did? said William.
Yeah I did... Psyche! joked Pete.
Oh leave me alone said William.
WHAT? said Pete.
Leave me alone,

WHAT?
Leave me alone!
WHAT?
I SAID LEAVE ME ALONE! yelled William.
OKAAAY!
William said nothing and walked away.
Pete left him sulking and started running. He then spotted a red corsa
being chased by a convertible sedan. The passenger sticking his head
out shouting Alan, drive faster you moron. The passenger was
wearing the same clothes and carrying the same gun and driving on
Warwick Street.
Have you seen that? Pete asked a passer-by.
Seen what? he responded.
Have you seen them? said Pete.
What? Yeah... oh my god, look at the time I gotta jet, sorry, he said
hurriedly.
Damn! said Pete.
A figure appeared at the bush where Manuel took cover earlier.
He was six foot tall with eyes resembling table tennis balls with a long
nose and had a high pitched voice. He looked like the middle aged
version of Pinocchio.
Oi kid, did you see a black man in his forties with a gun who rides on
a beat up sedan? said the man.
Uhh yeah, said Pete.
Where?! said the man
He went this way said Pete.
Thanks said the man. It was starting to get dark.
He set off and Pete was looking at him go. Suddenly a car appeared
from nowhere and was about to crash him but the car went through
the person. The man kept going on as if the car was even there.
Oh my god, said Pete.
The car went past him and he focused it was an ordinary car.
This town isnt what it used to be, he said, puzzled look on his face
Pete and his best friend were on their way when Pete told him all he
saw about that chase.
Remember that car you told me about? It happened again but this
time a man with such huge eyes and great height just appeared outta
nowhere and asked me about him, Pete said And also the car just
went through him as if he is not there,
Oh man! My street is haunted! cried Manuel Hernandez and started
whimpering.
Snap out of it! Well, glad you mentioned that, car through person who
stays intact could mean one thing...
GHOST!

What? answered the one called Ghost. He is a medium sized boy with
black spiky hair. He was wearing his favourite football team shirt and a
pair of jeans.
Where is your uniform, young man? said Miss Button, deputy
principal, an old woman in her late forties with her tied in a bun
speaking in a bossy voice.
I dont know, he replied
What do you mean I dont know?she said Listen Ghost, I mean
Juan Esteban Luis Gutierrez Montoya Hernandez, where is your school
uniform? You know very well that on school grounds you wear school
uniform, she explained
Wow! You know my full name!
Never mind that! Where is your school uniform?
I dont know really, maybe my dog tore it up,
You dont have a dog, do you?
No Im just bluffing,
Listen, young man, said Miss Button, standing up I dont like your
attitude one bit. Where is it and dont give me any false excuses,
Okay, a dragon breathed on it, he said, with a grin.
Alright thats enough! she stood up slamming her fist on her wooden
office desk; breaking it into half but not realising it You young man
have just got yourself a detention, and I will call your parents and tell
them about this misconduct. Now go home and change into your
uniform! she said finally.
Good riddance, he said under his breath
What did you just say?
I said thank you very much, Miss Button and by the way... your desk is
broken. he said, trying hard no to laugh.
What? Oh my god.
It is Monday afternoon at Byron Park School and William was getting
picked on by Manuel in class.
Really, you thought last Monday was school day? No wonder youre
the caretakers pet! said Manuel
I dont care, groaned William sulkily.
Well, now you do! Ha! joked Manuel.
Whatever, man, snapped William.
Est loco! whispered Manuel to Pete who giggled, but he made it
obvious to William so he started fuming.
WILL YOU LEAVE ME ALONE FOR ONCE? William bellowed.
Everyone went quiet.
Whats wrong, William? said Miss Campbell.
Nothing replied William curtly.
Oi, come on, leave him alone! said a voice which was familiar to Pete
and Manuel.
Both turned around and saw Juan.
Hey cabron, what are you doing there? Come and sit here! Manuel
shouted across the room.
Juan was approaching them and sat down next to them. They both
greeted each other in Spanish.

Manuel, I heard a rumour that your street was haunted. Im I

right?
Who told you that? said Manuel.
Him, Juan said, pointing at Pete.
Well for your information that was my grandad he died while chasing
a criminal,
You mean that your grandad was black, hombre, said Manuel.
What? Yeah he was, said Juan but anyway back to business,
He was driving full tilt down your street, and the end was a bridge
overlooking a river. They realised it too late and smashed full force
against the bridge and both cars fell in the bridge. My grandad and
that stupid criminal drowned in the river. I was only ten years old and
my parents told me a week later. Then later on, I saw a mist in the
shape of my granddad, but I wasnt sure because I was so young. And I
froze with fear, and then screamed like mad and then I was crazy
about it; I would not shut up for a minute about his ghost when I joined
secondary school. Thats why I got the nickname: Ghost. But anyway
no one calls me by it no more, so it makes me feel good,
Pete was taken aback and Manuel was paying full attention
Oh Im sorry, said Manuel
Im joking! Ha ha! High five! Juan snapped, giving a high five to
Manuel, who had a confused expression on his face, You really fell for
it. Pete you should seen the look on your face! Come on, Manuel, you
know full well there is no bridge or river within a hundred miles of
where you live, dumbo! Juan was now laughing for a second and then
his grin vanished No Im serious NOT, he laughed again.
What about that man who looks like Pinocchio?
He died in a house fire, said William.
Juan turned around Really?
He was a man who smoked- William began.
Of course, now I know him He was a man who smoked
I just said that? said William
Will you shut up? said Juan Okay, he was a man who smoked too
much and he liked it. He was completely addicted to it. His house was
full of tobacco smell that one night after smoking his last cigarette; he
forgot to put it out and left it on the carpet and walked up the stairs
like a drunk
Thats not him
Shut up, said Juan.
Ok, where was I? Oh yeah and he also was high on tobacco and when
the smoke alarm rang, he didnt hear it because he was a heavy
sleeper. Even when smoke drifted up his nose his brain recognized it as
tobacco smell and never alerted him. So therefore ladies and
gentlemen he died,
What are you three boys up to? said the teacher, seemingly
appearing out of thin air.
Nothing said Juan.
That night, Manuel, Juan was going with the Pete to show them the
house.
They went there and saw the house completely normal.

Oh yeah I forgot to tell you the house was rebuilt and it took a two
dozen men to build it exactly how it was because it was a nine
bedroom house,
Okay see ya later Im going home, said Manuel
In a bit, mate said Juan.
Ta ta said Pete, looking at the house.
Pete sniffed at the house but smelled nothing so he went closer and
took a deep sniff again he smelled nothing.
Tobacco smell this guy has completely gone cuckoo Pete said

He backed out and carried on down the street until he heard a rev of
an engine. Pete looked around.
Nothing.
Pete began walking and heard the rev of a car and a gunshot and
turned around and realized he was on Warwick Avenue and the ghost
rumour was there on front of his eyes, however, he stood for a second
to realise that the cars are solid and not see through as the rumour
was suggesting. So then he stood in the path of the cars.
Hey Stop! STOP!
Both drivers heard him and stopped and they stepped out of their
cars.
You! said Pete.
Me? What about me?
Shut up, Jimmy, said Mr Johnson
Mr Johnson, why are you chasing him? said Pete, pointing at the
black man he met earlier in the same situation.
Everytime he steals stuff from my shop and keeps running to his car. I
had an assistant called Alan who would do the driving for me so I can
catch that twat. But one time he came to my shop and saw him there
with a handgun and Alan laying still on the floor, blood everywhere...
Yeah Mr Johnson, I remember that I spoke to this guy just after the car
went round the corner,
I had a decoy, my friend Calvin
Come here you
He ran to Jimmy who started running a second later but tripped on a
stone on the pavement. Mr Johnson picked him up, gave him a
headlock and pulled out his 9mm.
Get in the car now Jimmy or youll get a bullet in your head. Peter can
you drive? asked Mr Johnson
Yeah, of course, replied Pete.
Thank God, drive to the police station, quickly said Mr.Johnson.
The man was squirming to get loose but Mr Johnson was too strong for
him.
Ten minutes later Mr Johnson was in the police station, gun away in
car. He marched to the reception.
Ive caught the man I told you about said Mrs Johnson
Okay Mr Johnson well take him from here. Come with me. said the
officer in the reception

She called out some instructions and two policemen came and cuffed
him and escorted him to his cell.
When she sat back down she heard a fart while everybody around
here were trying not to laugh, she realised the sound was hers and it
came from a whoopee cushion. Funny. she said. She picked it up and
threw it in the bin.
Mrs Johnson was outside and saw an auburn car rush past. He took
his binoculars out and managed to look at the personalized plate
Backus it read. He thought he knew the man driving but he couldnt
tell as the car has turned the corner. He glided down the steps and
strolled back to his car, pleased with what he has done.
Pete went home that afternoon. He was so tired and just longing to get
home.
He went through the driveway, in the house, up the stairs; just
tripping in the topmost stair and bursts into his room. But something
there caught his eye and he froze. Goosebumps appearing all over
him. There sat on his bed the man with huge eyes looking like golf
balls.
Oh my god! What are you doing here? asked Pete
Oh Im having dinner here. Your dad invited me, said the man.
Um hmm... You work with him? said Pete.
Yeah,
So you are fine then... muttered Pete in a nervous tone.
Yeah, healthy as a horse,
So what my mate said was true?
Oh no, Its all fake, said the man Well there I am right here,
Why did you ask me that time about a man with a gun?
Johnson told me to look out for him,
Pete got up and touched himbut his hand felt nothing.
Pete screamed and backed away.
Just then the door behind him opened and the same man came in
laughing and Pete swiftly looked at the ghost behind him but it wasnt
there.
Pete then got up again and touched the mans shoulders but this
time he felt solid muscle.
Thank god! What was that?! cried Pete
Its a holograph. Your dad told me to play this prank on you! said the
man.
Really? My dad told you that? Dont bullshit me, man! My dad dont
play pranks!
Haha! You got me, I cant help it if Im the little prankster, he giggled.
Whats your name?
Carl Wilson, said the man.
What about
Another holograph in the street. Holographs are just like ghosts but
you cannot touch them. Rumour has been going around that the street

was haunted. Its all codswallop, he explained, Besides; you see how
news travels around like wildfire! Pete was gobsmacked.
You shouldve seen the look on yo face! Carl laughed.
Pete, get yer arse down ere. Dinnertime is ready, Petes mum called
out.
Im coming,
Pete went downstairs, relieved about everything.
Carl looked at Pete going down, smiled and then vanished into thin air.
At Mr Johnsons shop, all four people were hanging out there.
Will, I apologise mate. Ive been hard on you. said Pete.
No need to, man.
Lo siento, amigo, said Manuel.
Who would like a drink? said Mr Johnson
I do! I do! they said in unison.
Thatll be 50p from each of you,
Everybody groaned.
Im just pulling yer leg. Help yerselves. he said and turned around.
So he said it was a holograph, both of them said it and it was an shit
prank, said Pete
Juan, where did you get your nickname Ghost from, man? said
Manuel
Nickname! Hardly anyone calls him by his so called nickname!
giggled Pete.
I love ghosts! They are dead beings and they can haunt places and go
through walls and-
Juan there is no such things as ghosts, man.
Oh alright then, said Juan, feeling down.
Mr Johnson immediately remembered Jimmy and imagined him coped
in a cold, dark, police cell with nothing but a wooden bed with no
mattress or linen, just cold, hard, wood to sleep on. He allowed himself
a grin.
Elsewhere in the police station, Jimmy couldnt stand still from the
pressure.
HELLOOO! CAN ANYONE LET ME OUT? I NEED TO GO TO THE TOILET!
Jimmy called out.
STOP SHOUTING! snapped the officer in charge.
WHAT? he said
I SAID STOP SHOUTING, PUNK
OKAY!
Right, thats it
The officer came and closed the peephole on the door.
Oh shit, Im sorry I didnt understand you officer. Come on let me out,
please. I was jokin around,
Then stop messin out,
Come on, come on, come on, let me out, please, please. he said,
holding his private parts and jumping continuously.
Shut up." The officer snapped

He sat down but couldnt then undid his fly and took a leak furthest
away from his bed.

THE HUMAN GHOST

The human ghost was a man who could go invisible just by clicking
his fingers. He has a twin brother who was called Alan, Mr Johnsons
assistant.
This ghost can go through things that can be broken or burned
like glass, wood, fabric and plastic while invisible. He cant fly because
he is human, but instead can sprint up to sixty miles per hour. And he
goes by the name of Carl Wilson. A friend of Pete Herrings father and a
popular man amongst his peers.
Alan was busy stacking the shelves in Mr. Johnsons shop when a
mysterious figure walked in.
Alright, said the figure which made Alan jump.
Oh, hey Carl. Whats up? replied Alan
Oh nothing. Looks like its the end of the line for somebody,
End of the line? What do you mea- he saw Carl pull out a gun, his
eyes widen in fear. Carl nodded at Alan, then pulled the trigger. He
quickly snapped his fingers and went up to Alan who was laying there
all bloodied up, wiped the gun and put it down beside him and hurried
out of the store.
Jimmy walked into the store ten minutes later. He went up to the
drinks fridge. He took a Pepsi can and closed the fridge. He turned
around and looked to his left and his heart missed a beat and he saw
Alans lifeless body and saw a gun next to him. He picked it up and
examined it. He was surprised that a lot of blood was gushing from a

single bullet and that Alan is still warm. He started pointing the gun at
the cash register, at the sweets racks and then at Alan, trying to find
out the best way to hold the gun and point. At that exact, moment Mr
Johnson walked in, saw his assistant, motionless and covered with
blood. He saw Jimmy stood there in front of the limp Alan with a gun in
his hand, seemingly pointing at him. Mr Johnson went red with rage.
Youre a dead man! he screamed as he started to chase Jimmy
around the shop and finally out of the door and into the street.
Half and hour later, an ambulance was called and it stopped outside
the shop and it started to drive Alan to the hospital. Alan later on, sat
up and opened the doors and the ambulance crew held him back and
closed the door, he punched both of them square in the face and they
dropped like autumn leaves to the ground and he held a knife closed to
the drivers neck.
Stop this ambulance or Ill slit your throat! he threatened
menacingly.
The ambulance skidded to a halt, but Alan didnt even stumble.
You will not say this to anyone. If you do, there will be no tomorrow
for you, understand?
Y-y-yes sir! stammered the driver in fear.
Alan then bumped him on the head and then left the ambulance.
Meanwhile, Carl was following Mr Johnson, after a lengthy pursuit,
to the police station. He drove there, then waited and could see
through the door that two uniformed officers came and escort a man,
handcuffed, away. He started the car, and then headed up the road a
mile away from the police station. He took his binoculars, looked at the
entrance and saw Mr Johnson come out and go back in. He put his foot
down and the car screeched down the road. He went at a steady speed
then increased his speed, he saw Mr Johnson come out and the man
looked at his rear-view mirror that Mr Johnson has got a pair of
binoculars.
Jimmy was in his prison cell two days after being sentenced for five
years, was writing at the wall with a nail. He had a bad start, but he is
beginning to like this place. He was expecting mean looking thugs to
make his life a living hell but so far its went okay for him. Hes friends
with his cell-mate, Bruce Miller.
I hate this place, said Jimmy I wanna get outta here.
I know. Me too.
Sike!
He receives no respect from the jail staff and pounded one for being
racist. The man got a heated argument with his boss and then got
fired, much to the delight of Jimmy. Jimmy, however did not get off
lightly, he has been punished by cleaning the toilets which never
seems to be clean despite any amount of brushing and scrubbing and,
hard labour.
You got any brothers or sisters? asked Jimmy during lunch.
I got one idiotic brother who works at a school, said Bruce.
What did he do? he asked

I got two of his students framed for some handbrake stunt, because
they were causing a nuisance and I did it on the spur of the moment
explained Bruce Then he turns up and tells the authorities that they
are innocent. I got arrested for it. And he was prick and a pest to me
when was I was young which makes my blood boil just thinking about
his ugly face! I HATE THAT MAN!
Okay. Calm down.
How come you got jailed? asked Bruce
I got setup because of a mistaken identity. Maybe I should have called
for help after seeing him full of blood, just lying there, not moving. And
I saw a gun next to him and tried to hold and point like policemen and
detectives in films. I was so stupid, though,
Bruce, warden wants to see you, said the officer.
See ya later, said Bruce.
Carl was running behind Pete who was so desperate to get home.
Carl overtook Pete, ran through the wooden door, invisible, up the
stairs and into Petes room and put his hands in his jacket pocket and
fished out an object that looks like a pen and placed it in the ground.
The object stretched a few inches longer and projected a life-sized
holograph of Carl and the real Carl poked his head through the wooden
door of Petes room and then waited for Pete to burst in the room.
Pete burst in, face sweaty and out of breath. He flung his bag on
his bed, took of his fleece jumper, hung it in the cupboard, closed the
door and froze. Goosebumps appearing all over him. There sat on his
bed the man with a nose as long as a pencil.
Oh my god! What are you doing here? inquired Pete.
Oh Im having dinner here. Your dad invited me, replied the
holograph.
Um hm, said Pete.
Carl left the room invisible and waited outside. Ten minutes later he
heard a scream. He went in laughing and looked at Petes alarmed
face.
Thank god! What was that?! cried Pete
Its a holograph. Your dad told me to play this prank on you! said the
man
Whats your name?
Carl Wilson, responded the man.
What about
Another holograph in the street. Holographs are just like ghosts but
you cannot touch them. Rumour has been going around that the street
was haunted. Its all codswallop.
he explained.
That night, Carl lay in the sofa of the nine-bedroom house in which
he owns. Remembering one of his best friends being put away in prison
filled him up with grief. He felt like he should do something and not sit
on his backside doing nothing. He then sat up, and switched on the TV

and started to watch Prison Break. An idea shot into his mind as soon
as he turned on the set and was mumbling indistinctly for ten minutes
as he searched his brain for a plan that would hinder any interruptions
or miscalculations.
He finally found it and then began to draw out a map with an X
marks the spot type. He then found out how to get through the gates
and into the facility and find which cell hes in. He quickly remembered
cell 12A because his twin brother informed him of that. He then
realised that he doesnt need a map; he can turn invisible. He scraped
the paper and took a shot at a bin far on his right but missed. The he
began to visit Mr Johnson at his shop.
The shop resembles a typical newsagent with an air of Come in, buy
something and when Carl entered it, he felt like Rescue Plan: Phase
One in progress and he smiled as he thought of that.
Hi err... is Johnson there? he asked the new assistant.
He is. Who is requesting him? she asked. She got a middle-pitched
Cantonese accent.
A friend. said Carl.
What is your name? she questioned.
Lady! I have no time. Just ask him to get his butt over here! he
exclaimed.
Okay, she responded, surprised at this sudden outburst.
Carl too realised his outburst was pointless
Im sorry, Carl apologised.
No, its okay,
She went to the back and Carl could hear a faint conversation.
A man with the huge eyes wants to see you. He says hes a friend of
yours. she explained.
Okay, Chun-Li, Ill see. said Mr Johnson.
Mr Johnson went through to the counter.
Carl!
Olatunde!
What are you doing here, man? said Mr Johnson.
Listen, about Jimmy, err..., he began.
Jimmy, that stupid thief, what did he do this time? growled Mr
Johnson.
I just wanna tell you that he didnt kill your previous assistant. Its all
fake, I dont even know which dumbass prick would do such a thing,
Carl then took out his mobile phone and dialled Alans number.
Hello, Alan. Its me Carl. Alan, just tell Mr Johnson here that youre
alive. He wont believe me otherwise... fantastic... here, Mister... Carl
said, handing the phone to Mr Johnson.
Carl could hear faintly that Alan said Im not dead and Mr Johnson
kept on nodding and smiling.
What am I going to do with her? asked Mr Johnson.
Its easy, just keep her. Now you got two assistants. replied Carl I
was thinking now Alan is not dead, lets get Jimmy outta jail.
Get outta here! said Mr Johnson.

Im serious. If thats OK with you, I could set off and get im out,
explained Carl.
How will you be able to do it, man? Its heavily guarded,
You leave that to me, he said with a wink.
When are you gonna do it? asked Mr Johnson, finally after being
nagged for twenty minutes.
When its possible, Im always ready! Carl joked.
Wait till dusk, then go. said Mr Johnson
Bye, Olatunde.
Later.
Carl went straight to his house and waited. When dusk approached,
he went out to the penitentiary. He travelled across a grassy land with
coniferous trees on his left, across a deserted country lane. Through a
deciduous forest with the help of a map and he finally saw it.
Silhouetted in the top of the hill with high gates and search-lights on
the outside and well as the inside, he thought it would be hard for
anyone to enter and exit that place but he felt calm; he has that
special power to turn invisible.
He approached the gates, turned invisible, and began to walk
through the metal gates... but he bumped into a metal gate. He
thought metal cannot be burned and cannot be broken so he cant go
through it! He looked at his finger then he touched the metal gate.
The gate itself started to glow and slowly vanished. He looked at it
with a shocked expression. He put his hand forward and tried to touch
the non-existent gate, but his hand felt nothing.
He went through the gates, and began to walk towards the building.
He looked at the door; he could see a small glass window pane. He
tried squeezing himself in. He was struggling but in the end, he got
through. The entrance hall is huge with prison cells lining the walls and
a staircase leading downstairs in the far end and a staircase leading to
the cells upstairs which can see from where he is. He tried to find
cell12A. He saw a sign next to the staircase saying Cells 11B to 13C
downstairs. He went downstairs. He was reading as he was walking
until finally he found the right cell.
Suddenly he heard a whistle, he looked to his right. A security guard
was coming his way. He got out of the way. The guard went past. The
occupier shouted indistinctly. SHUT UP! hollered the guard and
carried on walking. Carl recognised the voice.
Jimmy? said Carl. He returned back to normal when he entered the
cell.
Carl. What are you doing here? questioned Jimmy.
I came here to rescue you. Listen, Alan is not dead. I guess I will get
you. And I will deal with the perpetrator later who did this,
Who did what?
Huh?
You said the perpetrator who did this who do you mean by that?

The reason you are here, dummy, the guy who did it, said Carl with a
smile.
Jimmy stayed quiet.
So..., Carl began Do you want to get out?
Nah I like it here, He replied and paused because of Carls
questioning look Okay, but my house got repossessed.
You can stay at my house. You will feel comfortable there. said Carl,
beaming.
Jimmy looked like he was going to say something but withdrew it. He
was thinking about his conversation with Bruce but his friend lay in the
upper bunk snoring and Jimmy couldnt be bothered to wake him up.
I have no job, no family. Im just a hobo out there. said Jimmy
Carl touched Jimmy, who vanished instantly, then the door and then
turned invisible.
Carl could see Jimmy fine but others cant. They made their upstairs
and then suddenly an alarm rang. Carl and Jimmy hurried back to the
cell. Jimmy turned back to normal and the door was back to normal. He
could hear shouts and screams and people rushing here and there.
Alert! Alert! Breakout! screamed the loudspeaker outside the cell.
Security guards looking through peepholes to check that everybody
hasnt left their cells. Then everything managed to cool down as one
guard called out FALSE ALARM! and everyone stopped panicking.
Carl and Jimmy both waited until there was total silence to do the
whole procedure again. Then they ran like theres no tomorrow as they
sprinted forwards then left, then upstairs to the corridor with the door
on the other side and they both gather enough momentum to dive
through the glass. Jimmy was shocked at Carl diving through the glass
which stayed in one piece. He dived through and managed to land
softly on the other side.
Come on! shouted Carl and they both dashed to the metal gates
and passed very close to a guard. Jimmy went through first and Carl
touched the hinges and it slowly reappeared.
How did you do that? asked Jimmy as they were walking through the
forest.
Do what?
Diving through the door? Getting the main gate to vanish? said
Jimmy.
Its nothing,replied Carl.
So what are you? How did you get this power? asked Jimmy.
I did a BIG favour once for a mysterious woman once when I was
fifteen and she said Thank you ever so much O Kind One, you will be
granted one wish and I wanted to know how does it feel to be
invisible and I see films of people using some complicated device or
drinking some potion and they turned themselves invisible. So I said I
wish I can be invisible at will and she said Your wish is granted, O
Kind One. This is my special one. When you turn invisible, you will not
only be invisible, but can go through things that can be burned or
broken. he explained.

Where is she now? asked Jimmy.

She died couple of years ago and then I found out that I can run up to
sixty miles an hour. I went to her grave and looked at her stone. She
lived for one-hundred and twenty three years. explained Carl.
They reached the country lane which looked creepy at night,
crossed it. They then carried on until he reached the city and from
there, he only walked two miles to get to his house.
Next day Carl visited the shop. He was told that Mr Johnson was
away and will be with him in fifteen minutes. Mr Johnson finally showed
after twenty five minutes.
Yes Carl, any news? demanded Mr Johnson.
I took him out, hes in my house if you wanna see im Carl explained.
Okay, said Mr Johnson Chun-Li, take care of the shop, Ill be back in
a half hour. Alan, come with me.
The trio set off to the nine-bedroom house and then Alan was told to
wait outside.
Oh shit! Safe, blad! said Jimmy.
How did you get out? asked Mr Johnson, examining Jimmy with a look
of confusion.
Jimmy told Mr Johnson everything.
Oh... so Carl used his magic powers to get you out. Yeah right! said
Mr Johnson with a giggle.
Jimmy started laughing.
Who wants some champagne? asked Carl.
Me! Me! Me! everybody but Mr Johnson replied.
Thats one pound! Pay up! He joked.
Hey thats my joke! said Mr Johnson.
Is it? My bad, said Carl with a grin.
Oi, Jimmy, said Carl Do you want us prove that Alan is not dead?
Go ahead. Show me, replied Jimmy.
Oh Alaaan! Come iiiiinn! said Mr Johnson in a sing song voice.
Alan walked into the room.
Oh snap! How did... Where was the... He was bleeding! exclaimed
Jimmy with a shocked expression on his face.
Alan showed him a belt with a squib containing blood
So youre not dead. Lets party! said Jimmy.
So with Jimmy out and him and Mr Johnson friends again, seems like
everything is okay.
As for the state penitentiary, they never knew a single thing and
anyone suspicious were dealt with Bruce as he was covering for Jimmy.
And was he doing a great job! No suspicions for five weeks running! He
himself doesnt want to get released because he doesnt want to see
his brother. He wanted to remain at the high security jail until the end
of his sentence because of simplicity, no job or anything, Jimmy liked
his new home. All was well... for now.

TRUTH HURTS
Oh man, how come youre that good! said Jimmy, throwing down his
controller.
He was living in Carls house for the past nine weeks and rarely set foot
outside the door, out of fear of being recognised by policemen or any
authority figures. Once the police knocked on his door and Carl and Jimmy
thought they were gonna get busted, but the police merely informed them
that the neighbours are complaining about the sound and that they should
turn it down. Since then, it was quite and no visitors, except the occasional
parties that Carl throws.
Through practice. How else did I get so good? Maybe that woman granted
me that too! chuckled Carl.
Really? asked Jimmy.
No! You gullible fool!
Oh, okay,
Yo, I still cant believe you busted me out. Cant thank you enough. Since you
know, I didnt do anything,
Yeah, I figured. Dont even remember doing anything to cause this in the first
place,
Really,
Yeah, I think so. I dont know, Ill try and remember,
I thought Alan told me the guy looked like you, or was you,
Well, maybe,
Okay,
They sat quiet for a moment, taking in what the news that Carl had revealed,
if you can call it that. Carl then picked the controller up.
You didnt give up on me did you? Realised Im too good for you?
"Nope! Bring it on. Ill have you a rematch! agreed Jimmy.
Meanwhile in the prison, Bruce was called in the wardens office for the
umpteenth time.
What is it now, warden? said Bruce with a bored tone of voice.
Dont speak to me with that tone, sit down! said the warden, standing up.
How were you coping in this prison so far?
Alright, you know, the odd fight and that sort of malarkey, apart from that,
everything is tops,
Hmmm... okay, straight to the point. I just heard an inmate escaped this
prison not long ago,

Bruce heart leapt to his throat, Who said that?

I have my sources. I am hoping you will cooperate with us, do you wanna
cooperate? he said.
Cooperate about what?
All in good time. Now, I want ask you a question and I need an honest
answer, ok? said the warden.
Bruce nodded.
Okay, where is Jimmy Keita? he asked.
Bruce was fuming at the prospect that the news leaked out while he was not
the correspondent. How could anyone have known the escape of Jimmy?
Thought Bruce. He was trying to remember if he let slip anything that
shouldnt have left his mouth.
Hello! Earth to Brucie...
Huh?
Well?
Well what?
Where is Jimmy Keita?
Hes here isnt he?
Dont feed me lies, dammit!
I swear I dont know where he is! pleaded Bruce.
Fair enough. How about we both have a deal? the warden suggested, I am
willing to offer you unconditional parole provided you dont re-offend again
but for one condition: To tell me the whereabouts of Jimmy Keita. What do
you say to that? said Bruce.
Bruce stayed quiet and his mind was working overtime to imagine who would
grass on his friend.
No, Im afraid I have to decline your offer,
Unconditional parole, Bruce! the warden barked,We dont expect anything
from you; you just serve the remainder of your sentence out of here, thats all!
Huh! How is that feel like? We only need the whereabouts of Jimmy Keita,
demanded the warden.
Parole? Is that the best you can come up with? Thought Bruce. He thought it
would be best to keep declining the offer as much as he can.
No, thanks, warden. I will happily serve the remainder of my sentence in
here,
Listen, you slimy little shithead! said the warden, holding Bruce by the
throat, You dont know who youre messing with here! Nobody ever escapes
from my prison and lives to tell the tale! If you dont reveal the whereabouts
of Jimmy, I will personally make sure youre life is hell over here and make
solitary confinement feel like home as you will spending every single minute

of your humongous sentence in there if you do not tell me what I want! Is that
clear to you, maggot? Do I make myself clear?
Okay,
Tell me where he is then, yelled the warden, so close to Bruces face that
spittle landed on his face. Bruce wiped it off.
Okay, okay, I will tell you. He lives in a big house in the suburbs down
south.
Thank you. As par our agreement, you are hereby granted your parole, he
took out a piece of paper, Sign it and a guard will escort you outside, said
the warden.
Meanwhile at Carls house, Jimmy was getting dominated by Carl at just
about any video game so Jimmy gives up and goes to the toilet. A minute later
a solitary knock on the door was enough to send his blood pumping.
Although Jimmy couldnt hear it as the flush was masking the sound, Carl
went into the hallway and answer the front on his right.
He opened the door and let out a big sigh. It was Mr Johnson.
Johnson, you scared the daylights out of me, come in. squeaked Carl.
Sorry, man, he said with a giggle, You thought I was the police right? Boy,
you are scared too much. I dont think the feds are gonna show up, they
would have showed up a long time ago. Its been over three months,
Have a seat, said Carl pointing at the sofa opposite the TV. They sat down.
Would you like a drink? Tea? Coffee?
No thank you very much,
Hows your shop going?
Not that bad really, everything back to normal. Chun-Li has an incredible
work ethic, and so calm when serving three people at once. Alan on the other
hand is a decent fellow, never stops telling jokes you know and he really
brightened up the place,
Visited by any police or authority figures lately? inquired Carl.
After he got out of the big house, they visited me once for information and I
told them I had nothing to declare. They werent happy with the answer. So
they informed me that they will be back. Since then, they never showed up
and then after its peace and quiet and back to normal, said Mr Johnson.
Carl got up to go upstairs to his bedroom to fetch something when a knock on
the door came before he stepped on the first stair.
Jimmy, go open the door,
Why? It might be the feds,
Dont worry, I think they forgotten about it, I doubt they will show up,
Jimmy went to the front door and opened it.

Jimmy Keita? said the caller. He didnt come alone.

Yes, thats me,
Youre under arrest for being a fugitive, said the plain clothed officers.
Carl stayed at the top of the stairs while Mr Johnson tried to reason with the
officers. They asked where the owner is and Mr Johnson said he was out
shopping. Jimmy tried struggling but couldnt overpower two stocky cops and
gave up. Jimmy was escorted to their police car crying his eyes out. After first
he wondered how they knew his location, let alone his escape. Mr Johnson ran
after them vowing he will testify and defend him in court and make him a
free man soon.
Elsewhere in Byron Park School, it was the end of the day and the front yard
of the school has been overwhelmed by rushing students here and there.
Inside, the principal was in his office, getting ready to go home when his
phone rang. His secretary answered it and gave it to him. Its for you, she
said.
Hello? said the principal.
Hey Patrick, hows it hanging, said the caller, who has a deep growling
voice.
Fine, Ed. Hows the baby? answered the principal.
Hes fine,
Still remember that little baby-inside-car episode? he said with a grin.
Oh dont remind me about that, I was such a clumsy twat, he retorted,
Straight to the point, I just heard from my best pal that Bruce has been
released on parole and is on the streets as we speak,
The principal stood up quickly, knocking back his chair, Are you serious!
Yeah, in fact, I didnt believe it myself but I think I saw him on the street as I
drove by? Yeah, it was him, no mistaking them big ears,
When did he get released? demanded the principal.
I dont really know. I could hazard a guess at... this morning?
When did you hear it then?
Ninety minutes ago,
Okay, thanks for info, mate. See ya later,
The principal began packing quickly and hurriedly went to the staff room. The
room is pretty spacious but not huge, enough for each member of staff to have
a desk of their own and have space in between their desk and a fellow
member of staffs desk. Most of the teachers were deep in conversation with
one another. Some were typing away in their computers and laptops and
others packing their stuff ready to go home.

People, I have an announcement to make, he said. Everyone stopped what

they were doing. The room was silent.
I am moving to Derbyshire to pursue my career elsewhere. I will not be
coming back,
Any reason why? said one member of staff.
Yeah, its time I pursued my career in unfamiliar surroundings. You know, go
out there, see the world,
Really? asked Miss Campbell.
Yeah! This school has been helpful and supportive throughout my time here.
I will miss you guys,
Must you go, Patrick? said Miss Button.
My time is up. I really hope the new principal improves this school more
than I did,
You still never answered my question, said the member of staff.
Yeah, why you leaving? said Miss Campbell.
The principal thought for a while. He decided to be honest so not to
complicate things.
My brother is out of the pen and I dont wanna be in the city as him,
breathing the same air, walking on the same roads,
Miss Campbell giggled, Now from country air to city air? What next?
Neighbourhood air? What does Sheffield smell like? With all those parks and
woodlands?
Well I never been there, anyway, Im going in two days time and may come
back when I receive word that he is gone into oblivion!
Come on Patrick, you leave the county just cause your brother that you hate
is out of jail! Why not move in the outskirts right in the other side of the city?
Nah, forget it. Right, he said, picking up his suitcase, Ill see you all, when I
see you, And with that, he left the room where they didnt all move for a
minute to take it all in.
Later, Bruce was standing outside Carls house with a finger to the doorbell,
unsure whether to ring it or leave. He was stood there hesitant for five minute.
He finally chose to ring the doorbell. No answer. He rang again. He heard
footsteps of somebody coming down the stairs. Carl opened the door.
Carl? said Bruce.
Yeah, can I help? Carl replied.
Dont you remember me?
Carl squinted his eyes at Bruce and then opened them wide.

Bruce! Where you been, man? Come in, come in! You changed a lot, man! I
havent seen you for time and all of a sudden you appear out of thin air on my
doorstep! So, hows life?
Its alright. I came here right after I got out of the pen. I wanna say Jimmy is
innocent,
Yeah, I know,
Bruce suddenly broke into tears, Im sorry man! Theyre threatened me with
solitary confinement till the end of my sentence if I dont say where he is! That
wanker strangled me man and called me a shithead!
Its okay, man, said Carl patting his back, So thats why you came here...
right and they released you on parole under the condition that you tell them
where he is... hmmm...
Im sorry man, I couldnt do anything. He was such a tosser,
Dont worry about it, man. Have a seat. Want a drink? Snack? Anything?
Thanks man, Im fine,
Ill get you one anyway. What do you like? Mango? Orange? Blackcurrant?
Blackcurrant, please.
You can turn on the TV if you want.
Carl poured the drinks and thought that his little infiltration few months ago
have proved fruitless as it caused more problem than it solved. He feared that
the local authorities would notice Jimmys absence in the prison in the first
fortnight or so but the fear has faltered as months flew by. He assumed that it
was Bruce who was keeping a lid on it for the whole duration which
impressed Carl and he knew that the truth would leap out and escape Bruces
grasp eventually. He wished he could have done more than just bust Jimmy
out. But now he must correct this one again and make sure its problem free.
But how? He doesnt have any idea of Jimmys whereabouts or what they have
in store for him or any information about him at all. He wondered if Bruce
knew.
There you are, mate. Hopefully that will cheer you up, you know, drink it
and all the sadness you have now will suddenly vanish and you will be
smiling broadly until your lips hurt, said Carl.
Cheers, pal, he answered then took a sip of the juice, then started smiling
broadly. They both laughed.
Carl sat on the sofa beside Bruce.
What you watching? asked Carl.
Football match, replied Bruce.
Whos playing?
Crawley Town versus Thurrock. Score is 1-1
You sure youre okay,

Yeah, yeah Im good. Thanks for the drinks though and again, Im really
sorry,
You apologise too much, man. You dont have to. Anyway, do you have any
idea where Jimmy is at the moment? Anything at all?
Nope... none that I can recall,
You sure?
Yeah... in fact, I remember overhearing the warden discussing what they are
going to do with him and I think I remember him saying he was going to do a
retrial at New County Court,
Really, New County? That old crumbing courthouse? Its miles away!
New County Court or Diadem Court... I think it is Diadem Court,
Diadem Court was a heavily fortified court in which an official will have to
through two biometric checks such as retinal scans and fingerprint scans.
CCTV cameras on every roof and every wall and room and corridor inside the
courthouse. Two armed guards stood in front the gates in the courtyard while
two others stood outside the main gates. The metal gates are ten feet high
with little, sharp spikes on the top.
Do you know anything about the date and time of his trial or anything?
Tomorrow at 11 oclock, I guess. Why do you ask?
I want be there to watch the case unfold. Because I know him very well,
He carried on watching the match but instead hatching a plan in his head to
appear at the courthouse and sort it out for once and for all.
The next day when Carl arrived there, he was shocked to find out that they
doubled the guards patrolling the courthouse. He then realised he got the
power to go invisible but never used it for months so he clicked his fingers
softly and went to the nearest shop window and gazed at it. He saw a tall guy
with a big eyes and long nose. He realised he was looking at the shopkeeper
who was putting up a sign, he got the same facial features as him but Carl
never seen him before. He tried a different window, but found out that they
sell mirrors and went in to check. He opened the door, the bell sounded, and a
woman came back from the back room. She had suspicion etched on her face,
followed by alarm. She then dismissed as a schizophrenic.
Carl looked at one of the mirrors and let a sigh of relief which made the
shopkeeper run back where she came from screeching about a poltergeist.
Carl was waiting outside the metal gates for a car or vehicle to approach so it
can open and Carl can walk through. Finally, after what felt like ten years, an
SUV approached the gates with black suits inside. They seemed to be holding

someone hostage but then it occurred to him that they were escorting a
criminal and he looked closely and dismissed it. He has different skin colour
so it cant be Jimmy because hes white and Jimmys black. The gates opened
and Carl went in after the SUV. He went to the front door and again had to
wait.
The passengers of the SUV got out of the car and walked sluggishly to the
door. Carls patience wasnt really good but he thought it was worth the wait.
Inside, he had trouble looking for the room where the evidence is prepared
and after intensive searching, he found it. It was empty. He wondered how to
get in as it got a really small window at eye well and examined the wooden
and casually walked through it. He began to read the evidence papers which
suggested Jimmy as a murderer, lunatic and a threat to society. He reached
into his pocket and pulled out several identical looking evidence papers in
which he concocted. It shows the real truth to the case and declared Jimmy as
an innocent, fun loving man who could never harm a fly.
While he was sorting out the files, he heard footsteps and voices outside. He
increased his effort ten fold and when they opened the door, he was waiting
on the side until they went and ran out before they closed. He went out onto
the streets and went home.
Someone was knocking at the door. Loud and sincere knocking to show the
caller meant business. At first, Carl thought he was dreaming, but then the
knocking got louder and it turned into full palm hitting the door. Carl heaved
himself out of his sofa, opened the door of the living room and went to open
the front door on his right.
Hey Carl, sorry to wake you up. Can I come in and have a chat? asked Mr
Johnson, holding a newspaper.
Yeah, no problem, replied Carl.
They both went into the living room and sat down.
I got some good news and some bad news, declared Mr Johnson.
All traces of sleep and tiredness left Carl immediately.
I just received word that Jimmy is a free man. I am delighted by that news.
He doesnt have to hide anywhere. Heck, he could even wonder into a crowd
of policemen and they wont harm a hair on his head, explained Mr Johnson.
It says here the original committer of this felony is... what does that say?...
Max Wilson? Yeah, who ever he is. Funny that he got the same surname as
you,

Carl rejoiced when he heard that. His hard work has paid off. He hoped it
doesnt end in jeopardy again. Max Wilson was Carls maternal cousin and a
deadly enemy.
And now the bad news, said Mr Johnson, I heard a certain Bruce Miller
who I think is a friend of yours was in a car accident,
Now all traces of happiness left Carl and have been replaced with utter shock
and disbelief.
He was in the motorway; his cousin was driving when the car collided with a
van. The sort of vans with the slide door at the side. Now, not much is said on
here but all I can make of this is: he is in a special fractures unit in Leeds, he
broke half of the bones in his body plus he suffered a concussion. The driver
was said to be in a life support machine because he was careless enough to
have his seatbelt off and drive above the speed limit at 85 mph,
By then, Carl had a tear stricken face. Mr Johnson offered a shoulder to cry on.
There, there, Carl. It never said he passed away. Im sure hell be alright,
whispered Mr Johnson.
Later, that day, Mr Henderson wondered into the staffroom after a lesson.
Guess what, everyone, he said.
Everybody stopped what they were doing. They all looked up to Mr
Henderson with a newspaper.
Its terribly awful that Bruce Miller, Patricks bro, has been in an accident. My
condolences to him and his family and hope hes gets well soon. But, there is
an upside; the principal gets to stay here a little longer because, technically,
Bruce is not even in this city,
Where is he now? asked a staff member.
In his office, of course! Of all the people, his secretary asks me! grinned Mr
Henderson.
Miss Button blushed and sank lower into her seat.
Ill go and have a word with him,
Mr Henderson knocked on the principals office.
Come in, the principal replied. Mr Henderson went in.
Hey there, Patrick, have you heard? he began.
Heard what?
The latest news of course!
Yeah, what about it? I didnt have chance to catch up on whatever the media
is nattering on about,
No, its local. Your brother, he said, pointing at the newspaper, Has been in
an accident, he started gesticulating an injured person.

Are you serious? he implored.

Yeah, can you see this picture? he pointed at the newspaper.
What picture? Its just a van and a car both flipped over. There is nobody
there,
No, this photo, you fool, he said, pointed at an inset picture, two close up
photos of Bruce and his driver.
Oh yeah, that is really terrible... You want anything else?
What?! Its your own brother! Dont you feel any emotion at all? he retorted.
I am fairly upset, you know,
Fairly upset! You should be very upset! Hes your brother, man! You dont
look at all upset to me. Look, no matter what happens, hes your closest
relative and you should be looking out for each other ... what... Did I... Did you
just grin?
No! Honest! My lips were twitching so I had to
Oh, why do I bother with you, interrupted Mr Henderson, Does this
mean, youre gonna stay?
The principal stayed quiet out of indecision to answer.
He was flown into a hospital in Leeds so tech
A hospital in Leeds? Why they sending him all the way there for?
Let me finish! Technically, he is not in this city. So yeah, you get to breathe
this air all by yourself! he giggled. The principal laughed with him.
Okay, mate, Ill see you later. said Mr Henderson.
Take care, pal.
Mr Henderson closed the door leaving the principal. He got up and looked at
the window behind him looking at the deserted school yard. He had to
postpone his departure. But how long? He will never know. But if his brother
does heal well and is fully fit, he will know about it pretty soon.