The Link: Colette's Beginning

Prologue

Uncle Jordan, why did you give me all this money?

Because you’re the sweetest little six year old I’ve ever met. Ever.

My Daddy says so too, I said smugly, and Uncle Jordan smiled, reaching out and stroking my hair. Come and sit on my lap, Coll.

Ok- but Mummy’s coming back and she’s got me a present!

Doesn’t matter, Uncle Jordan answered, watching me run about. You always stare at me, Uncle Jordan! I told him. Why?

Because you’re a sweet little girl, he repeated. I love you, Coll.

And I love you too, silly! You’re my favourite Uncle in the world!

"I’m your only Uncle, he said amusedly, pulling me onto his lap and turning on the television. Want to watch a film with me up here?"

Well… Mummy says I’m not allowed to go in your room, I said.

So why’re you in here now? he asked me, flicking my nose.

Because you told me to come and get my present! This money, see?

Get a good dolly with it, something you like just for yourself.

Don’t like dollies, I pouted. I’ll buy a train track instead, Uncle!

Colette?

Yes Uncle Jordan?

I gave you a present, yes? I nodded. You didn’t give me one.

It’s not your birthday! I burst out laughing. What do you like?

My special niece, he told me, and I smiled at him happily.

You’ve got me already! Do we have to swap presents, Uncle?

Uncle Jordan nodded. I don’t have anything, though. What is it?

Cant tell you, he replied, and I stared at him, confused.

Why not?

I can show you, he said to me, and I said ok, not knowing what this present was. All I saw was my brother Jensen at the door.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

My name is Colette Gibson. I’m nine years old, and I live with my Dad, who is the best guy in the whole world, ever. He always tells me I’m his Princess, and he always makes me laugh when I’m upset. I live on a small island with him in a nice house, and that’s the best because my best friend Roxy Clark is only down the road. I met Roxy in nursery. First we wasn’t friends, then she poured sand on my favourite toy, so I turned her drink into mud… I don’t know how I did it, but I know I did. I can do magic sometimes. I remember when I was six, I broke my favourite cup but Dad said he cant buy a new one, because that was the last one in the market. I was so angry I blew the electric in the whole house, and Dad had to pay lots to put it back on again. He didn’t know it was me, though- he’s calling me.

Colette, do you want to come fishing with me?

I smiled at him, shaking my head. I’m staying with my Abuela, Dad.

She’s coming later- she wont be here yet! said Dad, pouting.

I know, but I’m thinking about her, so she’s still here, I told him.

You wont help your poor Daddy out here? said Dad, pulling such a funny face I burst out laughing.

What do I get for that?

Ten dollars for the work, and a hug and kiss from your old man, Dad replied, swinging me up in his arms and giving me a kiss. I was laughing as he tickled me, happy I was in his strong arms.

What time are we getting back? Abuela’s coming over!

We’ll come back in no time, I promise, said Dad, holding me in one arm and playing with my long hair, pretending it was his.

Wont you grow your hair, Dad? I asked happily, and he smiled.

What, so it’s long like yours? And it blows around everyday? I said yes and he laughed. You’d have to pay me twenty dollars for that.

Um… I’ve got twenty seashells if you want them, I said shyly, and Dad laughed again, carrying me outside the house, walking with me down the market, nodding hello to his mates.

Keep them, Princess.

Will I always be your Princess, Dad? I asked happily, and Dad nodded, stroking my hair. Sure you will.

What if I was bad and you was really really mad? I said curiously.

Even if I was, you’d still be my Princess deep down, Dad replied, but I wasn’t satisfied.

What if I broke your favourite dominoes?

You’re still my Princess, Dad said happily, and I pouted at him. There had to be something, right? What if I grew up, then? What if I was twenty or twenty nine, or sixty?

You’d still be my cute, cheeky, long haired Princess, Dad said happily, and I gaped, saying Even if I grew up? Wont I be too big?

You’ll never be too old to be my Princess, Dad told me, and I gave him a massive hug.

You’re the best Dad ever. I love you.

I love you too, Dad replied amusedly, and I kissed him.

* * *

I sat in Dad’s boat happily, playing with my bouncy ball until he needed me to do something. We’d been here for about fifteen minutes but no luck yet. Dad had the rod. My slingshot was in my pocket. I pulled it out interestedly, getting an idea. Dad smiled at me as I looked at it. Don’t you want the rod, Colette?

I shook my head, smiling. I taught myself a new trick- look, Dad.

Dad watched amazedly as I took a little pan from the back on the boat and put in in the water.

I’ll make it stay up, Dad. It wont sink, I promise.

And how will that happen, Princess? said Dad curiously, but I smiled and said nothing. I never told him that I could do magic sometimes. The pan didn’t sink. I put bait in the pan and waited, slingshot ready. I didn’t look at Dad: my eyes were on the water. I saw two shapes moving and waited until they moved closer, until they were right over the pan. I let the slingshot go and grabbed the pan.

Look, I got two, Dad! See that? How much did you get?

I’ve got none, genius, said Dad, gaping at me, and I smiled at him.

Well you’ve got two now! There you go!

I gave Dad the pan, who was still gaping at me.

You’re a brilliant kid, Colette.

I thought I was your Princess? I said, pouting at him he smiled.

You’re more than just a Princess. You’re really special.

What Princess should I be? I like Snow White, I told Dad.

Nah, you’re more like a Little Mermaid, or Rapunzel, he replied.

How come those two and not Snow White? I asked him curiously.

You can swim faster than anyone I know, said Dad, beaming at me. And you’re a beautiful little girl, too. That’s Little Mermaid, right?

Right! I said, letting the slingshot go and grabbing the pan again.

Three?! said Dad disbelievingly, as I gave them to him happily.

I’m brilliant, I said smugly. Oh- why Rapunzel, Dad?

Because you’ve got amazing long hair and you’re a beautiful girl.

You said that twice, Dad! I said indignantly, nudging him crossly.

And I mean it both times too, said Dad, smiling at me. We fished for ages, talking happily about random things while I caught most of the fish for Dad, who was speechless as we carried them back home. Then we played Rock, Paper, Scissors. I’m good at this game. I won.

I won! Rock beats scissors, Dad! I said happily, dancing about.

But scissors can cut rocks if you try hard enough, said Dad.

No it cant! I said, shocked. Dad smiled smugly, nodding.

Yes it can. Get me a rock and a scissors, and I’ll show you.

I ran and got a rock from outside and a scissors, and gave them to Dad. Dad cut the rock in half easily, flexing his muscles after.

"See? So I won. Scissors beat rock."

You’re showing off because you’re so strong! I said, pouting at him.

Yes I am, said Dad smugly. Playing out while you wait for Abuela?

For a bit. Ten minutes, then I’m coming right back, I promise.

I ran outside to where Roxy was playing with a skipping rope.

Hi Roxy! I said happily. My Dad’s really really strong!

No he isn’t, said Roxy, pouting. My Dad broke a vase. Yours cant!

He probably knocked it down, I said, pouting too.

No he didn’t! said Roxy. He dropped it, and it broke in a flash!

"Well, my Dad cut a big rock with just a scissors, so there!" I said, smirking at her. Roxy opened her mouth, then closed it.

You win. You always win when we break friends, don’t you?

I know! My Dad’s the best! I said happily. The best Dad ever!

We played with Roxy’s skipping rope for a bit, then I remembered my promise I made to Dad.

What time is it, Roxy? She told me, and I stopped playing immediately. Roxy looked at me questioningly, and I explained

I have to go now, Roxy. My Dad’s waiting for me back at home.

Roxy pouted. He didn’t call you, did he?

I shrugged, already walking away. It doesn’t matter, I miss him now. Don’t be a baby.

Roxy was screwing up her face in the effort not to cry. I looked around quickly before making a lollypop fly in front of her face.

Want it?

Roxy took it, smiling. Thanks! Um… will you come back later?

I didn’t know. Maybe. I’ll ask my Dad for you, ok? Bye! I dashed back home inside to Dad. I told you just ten minutes, didn’t I Dad?

That was only eight minutes! said Dad, smiling. You still have two minutes, don’t you?

I smiled at him happily, giving him a big hug. You can have the minutes, Dad. It doesn’t matter. I spotted someone about to come through the door. Abuela’s here! Abuela!

I ran up to my Abuela, who swept me up in her arms, giving me a light kiss on the nose. I missed you, Colette!

I missed you too! I told her. Will you tell me a story again?

Sure! said Abuela, setting me down as I ran and looked at myself in the living room mirror. You’re such a vain little girl, Colette.

I giggled, looking at myself. Everyone said I was a beautiful little girl, so I haven’t got a choice but to be vain. I stared into my own hazel eyes, admiring my jet black, glossy hair that was just past my shoulders, gazing at my toffee coloured skin happily.

I love me!

Abuela burst out laughing, turning to Dad.

Steven, donde se puede comprar una tarjete telephonica?

She was speaking in Spanish. I speak it too! She wants a phone card.

Um… I’ve got one upstairs, Madre, said Dad, smiling. Como estas?

Brilliant, said Abuela happily. Now I’ve got Colette with me.

You love her too much, seriously, said Dad, smiling at her fussing over me as I showed her my toys.

We went fishing today, Abuela!

Did you get lots of fish? Abuela asked Dad, smiling.

We got fifty, Abuela! I said happily. Fifty fishes came to us!

How did you catch fifty, Steven? said Abuela, gaping.

You wouldn’t believe me if I told you, said Dad. A slingshot.

"A what?! Come now, stop being silly," said Abuela, scolding him.

Dad shrugged and winked at me. I winked back. Dad waited until Abuela was elsewhere before whispering Abuela underestimates our fishing. What’s so bad about a slingshot, huh?

I giggled, nodding. The phone rang and Dad answered it, talking for ages while I played with my grandma.

Abuela, will I always see you? Always?

Yes you will, she answered. I’ve brought something for you too.

A present? I said happily, and Abuela nodded, giving me a gold box. I opened it and gaped. It was a little figure turning around slowly, soft music playing. That’s the song you sing to me, Abuela!

I know, said Abuela. So even if you don’t see me, you have that.

Thank you! I cried happily, giving her a massive hug before dancing into the kitchen. I’ll make you a drink, Abuela! Wait here for me!

I danced into the kitchen, snapping my fingers. The radio turned on. I pointed at the cupboard happily, which opened, a glass zooming out towards me. I caught it, then made it fly on the counter, pointing at the fridge. It opened, a carton of pure orange juice soaring over my head. The cap popped off as I made the glass hover in the middle of the kitchen, the carton bending slightly as the juice splashed into the glass. Then Dad came in suddenly, making me jump. The glass dropped the floor with a smash, orange juice trickling everywhere.

Sorry Dad! You scared me, I said, and Dad smiled, hauling me over his shoulder and carrying me into the living room.

Don’t worry about it. Stay in here while I get the glass off the floor, or you’ll get your little feet hurt.

I nodded, picking up my fairy tale book Abuela bought me. The house phone rang, Dad answering from the kitchen. I knew who it was, and started running upstairs but Abuela caught me at the doorway. Come on Colette, you have to speak to your mother, ok?

Ok, I said miserably, and I sat back on the sofa, waiting until Dad called my name for me to come and speak to my mother. I hardly even knew my mother! I just knew her name, which was Brenda Gibson. I wished I had my Dad’s name, which is Lawrence. Colette Lawrence sounds better than Colette Gibson, doesn’t it? The name Gibson only reminds me that I’m related to my mother, which I don’t want to be. And my eyes remind me I’m related to her too. My Dad’s got these really nice dark green eyes- like Christmas tree green ,not acid green or anything. Abuela does too, I think jealously. I wish I looked like my Dad- but I do, I think happily. My Mum’s hair is curly, and a dark brown colour. Dad’s got my jet black hair, and it’s just as glossy as mine is. Abuela’s got my hair too. My Mum works abroad, so she’s got a place wherever she is. Sometimes she comes and stays with me and Dad down here, but I don’t like her when she does. I like her being as far away as possible, so I have my Dad to myself.

Colette, called Dad from the kitchen. The phone. I sighed and got up, walking into the kitchen and taking the phone off Dad.

Hello?

Hello Colette, darling, said Mum happily, and I scowled as I listened to her talk. How are you? Behaving well? How’s school?

School’s ok, I said flatly, then I decided I might as well do it properly. I got a good report before we broke up, and I got a level five in all of my tests, and they put my art pictures in a magazine.

That’s wonderful, said Mum proudly. Which magazine is that?

It’s a new kid’s one- and they wont have it where you are, I told her. You’d have to come down and buy it from here or something.

Well now you mention it- my heart sank. I’ll be coming down to stay with you for a few months- Months?!! I’ve always said we need to spend more time together, what do you think?

I think you should stay at work and leave me and Dad alone! I swallowed this comment said forced myself to say I think so too. How are you?

You’re so sweet, said Mum happily, and I couldn’t help smirking at this. I can win anyone over. Don’t worry how I am, darling.

I wont! I spoke to Mum for ages, wondering how I could end the call. Dinner was on the table an hour later, and she was still talking! Mum was now in her lecturing mode, no joke. Why must you hear these fairy tales day in and out, Colette? They’re not real, you know that.

They feel real, I retorted angrily. And my dinner’s getting cold now, so I have to eat it. Do you want to speak to Dad again?

I gave Dad the phone without waiting for an answer and sat at the table, saying my prayers quickly. Please let something come up so Mum has to stay wherever she is! I smiled at Abuela and ate my dinner quickly. Dad ended the phone call after a while, and I got up and went upstairs, showering and changing into my favourite nightie Abuela bought me just the other day. Then I bade Dad goodbye (when Abuela comes over Dad goes out for a few hours to wherever, so she can spend time with me and so he can do whatever he does). I sat with Abuela in the living room, a mug of hot chocolate in my hand as I listened to one of her brilliant stories: this one was about a dragon who kidnapped a princess until the king promised to give him back all the treasure his men stole from it, then the princess fell in love with the dragon, which turned into a man and they lived happily ever after. By this time my hot chocolate was finished and I was already imagining myself to be the princess, wondering what she must have felt when she was whisked away.

She must have been really really scared of the dragon, isn’t it Abuela?

Abuela smiled at me, nodding.

I know I would have been scared if I was her.

We sat discussing the possibilities in the story, like the king may have tried to trick the dragon before he gave the treasure back, or he tried rescuing his daughter but the dragon was too smart for him. I was feeling sleepy by now, Abuela scooping me up and carrying me upstairs, laying me in my bed gently.

Make sure you sleep well, ok darling?

Ok! I said happily, as she tucked me in. I’ll dream about the dragon! Abuela burst out laughing and I smiled at her as she sat with me. Will you sing me that song again, Abuela?

She nodded, singing a beautiful tune that I knew I’d have to write down and sing along with my new music box. I fell asleep just like that.

* * *

Colette, you silly sausage, it’s afternoon! said Dad amusedly, drawing my curtains. Did you have a sleeping potion or something?

Hot chocolate, I said from under the duvet, and he burst out laughing, saying We’ve got to get you some new school shoes.

Well I don’t want any school shoes! I said. I’ll stay in bed, Dad.

No you wont, Princess! All of your friends are playing outside!

Sighing, I got up and Dad made my bed for me while I sorted my posture in the bathroom. Dad ironed some new jeans and a top for me, and I put them on happily as I wondered who was playing out.

I hoped it was the whole group: Deyon, Roxy, and Maurice. Deyon Cameron is my best friend who was a boy, and Maurice Blackwell is his best friend, but he’s my best friend too. He could be a bit annoying the way he says the lines out of books all the time, but apart from that he’s really funny. Deyon’s even funnier. They was all out! I thought happily, waving at them as I followed Dad to the car. We drove to the mall on the other side of the island, me rushing around happily, picking up all sorts of things I knew I didn’t need, but I wanted them anyway. Dad bought them for me. One was a little toy tiara which he put on my head.

Now you look like a Princess too! Come on, I’ll race you to the car.

* * *

Hi Colette! said Deyon happily, kicking his football about. Play?

Girls against boys! said Roxy happily, and I nodded my consent, though I cheated a little bit, making the ball shoot off course whenever Deyon or Maurice kicked it. Roxy knew, and she couldn’t help laughing when Maurice suggested the ball was too old to play with, Deyon putting it back inside his house.

Lets play Tag instead.

No, let’s play Spin the Bottle! I said happily, and at once about ten other joined us, up for a dare. Most of them chickened out at the last minute, but I didn’t. I always take my dares, ask anybody. I sang a sweet lullaby in the market that made everyone stop and smile.

She’s so cute, isn’t she?

I got loads of free stuff from the stalls just for saying hello, and I shared them with Roxy, Deyon and Maurice.

You lot have to get your own, sorry.

The rest pouted at me, scowling.

We’re your friends as well, Colette! Aren’t we?

Yes, but you’re not my best friends, are you? I said happily, and they shrugged. I gave them my sweets, smiling. I don’t want them.

They smiled at me. The sun’s going down now. Let’s go to the meadow!

Ok! said Roxy happily, everyone getting up. I bit my lip, looking back at my house before saying I’m not coming this time.

Everyone pouted. You never come with us to the meadow, do you?

Yes I do, but- I shrugged. I’m not allowed there at night time.

Don’t be a baby, said Roxy, nudging me. Just come this time!

I don’t want to get in trouble, I said, shaking my head. I cant.

Well ok, maybe next time, a boy called Tom John said, grinning at me. That’s if you’re not too chicken- you’re just a Daddy’s Girl.

Everyone burst out laughing as I said Shut up! I’m not chicken!

So come with us, then! said Tom happily, but I said no, and he burst out laughing again. Told you she’s chicken!

I felt like crying. I was not chicken, but Abuela was coming over and besides, it was seven o clock anyway. I noticed a tray of eggs by the dairy stall, which was closing up. Tom was still laughing.

Scaredy cat Colette!

Annoyed, I made four eggs fly straight at him. SPLAT!! Tom shrieked and spun round, but nobody was there. My hair’s messy!

Roxy was laughing her head off. Serves you right, Tom!

Tom turned and looked at me.

You threw the eggs at me, didn’t you?

Don’t be stupid, she was right next to you, Deyon said, laughing. Tom said nothing, staring at me. He knew it was me, no joke. I stared back at him, then he said I’m going home to wash my hair.

Not too chicken for the meadow, are you? I said coldly, and everyone started laughing again, Tom saying Shut up, Colette!

He’s chicken, I informed everyone. I’m not chicken, it’s just that my Abuela’s coming over for me: she’s probably there right now.

Everyone nodded. See you later, Colette! I said bye and ran home.

* * *

I don’t like Tom John, Abuela! I told her angrily. He said I’m a chicken today! I’m not a chicken, am I?

Abuela laughed, saying no. Why did he say you was a chicken?

She was brushing my hair as I spoke.

Because we was all going really far, but I said no.

Abuela nodded, putting the brush down as she said That was smart of you. It doesn’t make you a chicken.

Well, I threw eggs in his hair for saying it, I said, and she shook her head at me.

You mustn’t let words hurt you, Colette.

I sighed. I’ll say sorry tomorrow, if he plays out with us again.

Ladies and ladies, make way for the man of the house! said a jolly voice, and Abuela and I applauded as Dad came in, swinging me up.

And how was your day, Princess? Shouldn’t you be in bed by now?

Oh Daddy, let me stay with you for a little bit! I said happily, and he obliged and let me sit with him after Abuela went home.

Princess, look at that big star outside! said Daddy, pointing out of the window. We got up and looked, Dad saying You should make a wish on big stars.

So I closed my eyes and wished more than anything that Dad and I would always be together. Then I heard a faint roaring sound. I opened my eyes and hit Dad on the arm, laughing.

Daddy, it’s just an aeroplane! Dad started laughing as well.

Is it? I never knew that! Did you make a wish?

Yes I did! I couldn’t tell him what it was, but I could try and find out if it’ll come true. After Dad put me to bed and told me a story, I pulled his arm as he was about to leave. Dad? Can I ask something?

Anything you want, smiled Dad, and I fidgeted about before saying We’ll always be together, wont we? Dad nodded, and I sat up in bed, looking at him. Promise that if I be really really naughty, I’ll still be your Princess like you said? You wouldn’t turn on me, Dad?

No I wouldn’t, said Dad, as my eyes filled up. He put his arm around me. Where did that come from, Princess?

I said I didn’t know, but it would be scary if he wasn’t here. Dad smiled at me. That’s how it should be, then. You need your old man around, right?

Right! I said, as he kissed me on the forehead. Night, Dad.

* * *

When I saw Tom again I did not go and say sorry. I played football with Deyon as I waited for Roxy to come out- she was having dinner. Maurice was inside too, for some reason. Deyon kicked the ball but I made it rush right back at him, laughing as he fell over in shock. Something’s wrong with my ball! he said, looking at it. I nodded, wishing I could tell him it was me who kept messing with it. But he might get scared of me and not be my friend anymore, so I said nothing, waving at Roxy as she finally came out.

That was too long!

Sorry! said Roxy happily. Colette, can I ask your dad if you can stay at my house? I’ve got a new bedroom: it’s the big one that my Dad had for his computer! I’ve got twin beds too! Can you stay?

Um… I really wanted to say no, that I wanted to stay with Dad and Abuela, but then I heard someone say my mother’s name happily. Brenda’s coming down for pretty long this time! Reckon she’ll stay?

Ok, I said immediately, and Roxy gave me a big hug before following me to my house, up to my Dad. Daddy, Roxy wants me to-

Stevie, can Colette stay over at my house please? said Roxy, beaming. I’ve got a new giant bedroom, and I’ve got twin beds too!

Course she can, smiled Dad, and Roxy danced a jig before giving him a hug as well. Should she bring her stuff now or later, then?

I’ll drop them later when I stop by, Dad replied amusedly, as Roxy bounded about the place happily. My Dad’s name is Steven, but Roxy calls him Stevie. Her Dad’s called Fredrick but I call him Freddie. My Dad and Roxy’s Dad are best friends, and, unfortunately, so are our Mum’s. Roxy’s Mum was over excited when she heard my Mum was coming back down for a bit.

I should give her a call and see-

Oh please, please can you call her when I go to bed? I begged her, and she burst out laughing, shaking her head at me.

Colette, you cheeky sausage- you have to get to know your mother, you know.

Well I’ll get to know her when she comes down, I pouted, as Roxy’s Mum brought us popcorn and soda so we could watch Cinderella in Roxy’s new bedroom. I noticed a baby doll sitting on my bed. Wow!

Dad got me that, Roxy told me happily. He said he’ll get me another better one for my birthday next year! Like it?

I nodded, picking it up. I didn’t really play with dolls but this one was beautiful. It had bright blue eyes and curly blonde hair, and a cute smile, with dimples. It looks just like a real baby, Roxy!

Roxy beamed at me happily. Shall I tell my Dad to get one for you?

No, I smiled, putting it down. But can I sleep with her tonight?

Ok then… if I can borrow your princess crown, said Roxy, and I nodded, shaking her hand.

Deal!

Cinderella was my favourite movie. I loved all of the Princess films because they reminded me that Dad thought I was better than any of them, an even better Princess. I heard him talking to Freddie downstairs, but I didn’t move. This was the part when the pumpkin turned into a carriage. I gaped, suddenly thinking of something.

Roxy, do you think I can do that one day?

We haven’t got any pumpkins or mouses, Roxy answered. I burst out laughing, saying Not that! I mean change stuff into stuff, and-

Princess, will you give your old man a kiss goodnight?

I leapt up and jumped into my Dad’s arms happily.

You have to dream about me!

I’ll try to, smiled Dad, swinging Roxy up in his other arm. Look at both of you: you’re so tiny!

He burst out laughing as we pouted at him, Roxy saying My doctor says I’ll grow more, Stevie!

Dad laughed again, setting us down.

Don’t stay up too late, ok little girls?

We nodded, running back in front of the television. Now Cinderella was at the Ball, Roxy saying I want to go to a Ball.

To be all mushy and stuff? I smiled, as the Prince took Cinderella’s hand and danced with her. Roxy shrugged. I wish I met a Prince.

Here we go! I sighed, as Roxy went on about all the things she wants in her life. I’ll call my baby girl Colette, and the boy Troy-

Well I wont call my baby girl Roxy! I giggled, and she pouted.

Why not? We said we would swap things when we grow up, isn’t it?

I know, but my favourite boy’s name is Cory- remember that basketball man Cory? He won the trophy, and he’s got nice teeth!

What about a baby girl? demanded Roxy. You cant call it that!

I’ll call my baby girl Rudisha, I said happily, Because nobody’s got that name yet. I made it up in my bedroom, and it’s really nice!

Rudisha’s nice, Roxy admitted, then she scowled. So is Roxy!

Foxy Roxy and Colly Molly, it’s time for bed, said Roxy’s dad, popping his head round the door, then he laughed as we glared at him. Well, that’s what Mum says anyway. If we’re lucky- he lowered his voice and we crept closer to him. We’ll have a midnight feast!

Ok! we said happily, clambering into bed. Freddie told us a Princess story as requested, then he let us keep the lamp on for a bit.

Coll, I’m going to get married when I’m thirty, then I’ll buy my baby boy Tony from the baby shop! said Roxy happily, and I burst out laughing. You don’t get babies from the baby shop, Roxy!

Roxy pouted at me. Well, that’s where my doll came from, isn’t it?

But didn’t you listen to what Mrs Kate said? She said to us that-

But that’s nasty! pouted Roxy, and I shrugged as she said I bet she was lying anyway. Why do we have to learn about- about-

We burst out laughing, diving under our duvets before Roxy’s Mum came in and ticked us off for being noisy. We was learning about our bodies at school, and to me it was really weird, but really funny too.

All those funny pictures, and- and the Mum’s and Dad’s! gasped Roxy, diving under her quilt again. Why do people kiss anyway?

Because they’re dumb, I said matter-of-factly. Well, not all the time. I give my Dad kisses, don’t I? I give him kiss goodbyes and-

Not like that! giggled Roxy. Like mad people! She pulled a really funny face and I burst out laughing again.

People like kissing a lot.

Well I don’t! said Roxy decisively. I’m never ever kissing anyone!

Me neither! I agreed, and she climbed out of her bed into mine. I braced myself for the serious Roxy. She was going to make me promise something.

Coll, will we get boyfriends one day?

I didn’t know. I didn’t really think about it much.

I’m not really sure, Rox.

Good! said Roxy happily. Promise if we do we tell each other!

All right then, I promise, I said, and we linked little fingers happily, Roxy thinking. Who will my boyfriend be when I’m big?

How should I know? I burst out laughing again. Maybe Tom John!

No! shrieked Roxy, and she quickly dashed into her own bed as her door opened. I immediately played dead as Roxy’s Mum came over.

Roxy, pipe down for us, love. You’ll wake Colette up, look at her.

What! gasped Roxy, and I heard her climb out of bed to look at me, her Mum saying Sometimes I wonder if you’re a mad child, my girl. Everyone’s sleeping upstairs, even the cat- she‘s curled up in her bed. Colette’s on cloud nine. Shh! she said, as Roxy was about to interject. Come on, bed. Shall I leave your lamp on for you, then?

Yes please, said Roxy. Goodnight, Mummy! Her Mum said goodnight, closing the door. I waited until I heard her own door shut before sitting up again, laughing as Roxy pouted at me big time.

You always do that! My Mum thinks I talk to myself in my room!

I cant help it, I replied, smirking as I laid down. Night, Roxy!

* * *

Going back to school was great after the Easter holidays. Roxy and I immediately sat next to each other in class, ignoring the seating plan. Mrs Kate laughed at us. Roxy, that’s not where I put you!

Please, Miss! begged Roxy, following her around. Please let me!

You wont get any work done, will you? You’ll whisper to Colette!

But Miss, not everybody’s in their right place, I pointed out smugly. Deyon and Maurice are sitting next to each other, look!

Deyon scowled at me as Mrs Kate shook her head at him, sighing.

Deyon, how many times do we have to go through this? All year?

Oh, but- but I cant see the board properly! Deyon protested, as she gently hauled him out of the chair. Don’t make me go, Miss!

Deyon was a really bad liar, everyone knew this. Mrs Kate simply said to us Deyon’s gone blind today. He cant even read those words!

Yes I can! Deyon protested. It says Welcome Back! Everyone burst out laughing, Deyon realising he’d been tricked, and he pouted as Mrs Kate looked around, finally saying "Ok, sit next to Colette.

Roxy, come and sit with Maurice. There! Now can I begin the class?"

Yes! we said happily, Deyon grinning broadly as he sat next to me.

Did you have a good sleepover at Roxy’s house? I nodded, twirling my pencil around as I waited for something to copy off the board.

It was ok. I missed my Dad a lot, though. Deyon nodded, smiling as he started to write the date and stuff. I stayed at Maurice’s too.

That’s nice, I said blandly, listening to Mrs Kate, then the whole class erupted in giggles as she showed us a very revealing picture. Settle down, scolded Mrs Kate, though she was smiling.

In a few years time you wont find it so weird. Calm down Roxy!

As usual, Roxy was the last to stop laughing. I smiled at her and she smiled back, then I looked at Mrs Kate again, who was now writing stuff down on the board. Immediately I started to copy every word. I was really bored- I was writing the answers to the questions already. Mrs Kate stopped by my desk, exclaiming in surprise.

Colette!

Yes Miss? I said, puzzled as she picked up my book and began writing in it with her red biro pen. I wondered if I was in trouble.

Mrs Kate held my book, then she said Come with me, Colette.

I shot Roxy a puzzled look before following Mrs Kate outside the classroom. Mrs Kate looked really excited. Colette, we haven’t learnt about any of this yet. How did you know the answers?

Um… I don’t really know, I confessed, as she gaped at me. I just write the answers down, because I know it already. Did I do something bad, Miss? Am I in trouble?

Mrs Kate stared at me, then she shook her head. No darling, you’re not in trouble. You’re really smart, that’s what you are. I’ll have to find more advanced work…

She gave my exercise book back and led me back inside the class. I sat back down on my seat, then I looked inside my exercise book. Next to each question there was a big red tick.

* * *

Princess, you’re a genius! said Dad happily, putting the phone down.

How come? I asked, finishing my homework and putting it in my satchel. Dad pouted. Like you don’t know! I just spoke to Mrs Kate!

Oh… she said I was really smart, I said, picking up my fairy tale book to read. I thought I was in trouble, Dad! But she wants to find me more hard work to do, because my class work’s too easy for me.

That’s great, said Abuela, stepping into the house. I leapt up and gave her a hug, saying Look Abuela, I’ve nearly finished my book!

Then I’ll have to buy you another one, smiled Abuela, as the phone rang. Dad answered. I listened to him chatting away with my mother, then I put my book down, getting ready for him to call me to the phone. For some reason he didn’t call me, and I looked up at him hopefully, wondering if there had been a change of plan and my mother couldn’t make it down. I really hoped she couldn’t, because then Abuela might not go away. Abuela was going to Spain for basically eternity- a year. I didn’t want her to go. Who would sing me to sleep and tell me those brilliant stories? Not my mother, no way! Daddy was a good singer, and everyone said I was too, but I didn’t care. I wanted Abuela to stay. She was going on tour with a friend or something like that… Dad ended the phone call and smiled to himself. My heart sank. Mum must be coming extra early or something. I told Abuela about my first day back at school as we had dinner. Abuela seemed pleased that I knew every answer before Mrs Kate even taught us it.

That’s amazing- what was you learning?

Well… I started giggling before saying The body and stuff- it’s really weird, Abuela! I don’t know how I knew everything, though.

Dad said nothing through this. He looked like he was deep in thought. We looked at him but he smiled and said nothing, taking our plates away for us and washing them up too. Abuela smiled at him amusedly, saying So when is Brenda coming down then, Steven?

About three days after you leave for Spain, Dad replied, drying the plates and putting them away, though he left a glass on the side for some reason. I waited until both their backs was turned before making the glass fly into the cupboard. Dad went and got some soda out of the fridge and started in surprise when he saw that the glass was gone. I opened my mouth to say sorry then closed it. I didn’t tell Dad I could do magic either, or Abuela. Nobody except Roxy knows. I’ve heard about the olden days when they used to burn up people just because they could do magic: I don’t want to get burned up. Dad drank his soda silently, Abuela saying What’s the matter, Steven?

Nothing. Well, I wanted Tanya to come and stay, but Erica said no.

I cringed in my chair. My big sister Tanya was fourteen, and she was bossy sometimes too. I didn’t have a problem with her coming, but I didn’t like her mother, and she didn’t like mine. Erica Lawson hated my guts. She was the only person who did, actually. I don’t know anybody else who doesn’t like me. I said She wont let her come?

She’s being silly, Princess, sighed Dad, putting his empty glass down. I made it zoom into the sink when Dad checked the time, when Abuela looked out of the window. I wanted to go out and play, but I saw Tom John playing with Deyon. If he calls me a chicken again I might be naughty, and then he’ll tell my Dad off me. Abuela smiled as I peered out of the window. Never mind Tom, Colette. Go on.

I smiled back and put on my trainers, running outside to Roxy. Tom John looked up at me and called me over. At once about ten others joined my side. All my friends are like my bodyguards. The last time someone upset me they got into loads of fights with everyone.

Look, cant I tell her something? said Tom, annoyed. Reluctantly everyone backed and stood by the gate. Tom was eleven, so they didn’t answer back, but they gave him dirty looks instead. Tom turned to me. Sorry I called you a chicken before. But… um- Everyone crept forwards. Tom made a rude gesture, taking my hand and pulling me out of earshot. Did you make the eggs go in my hair?

I didn’t know what to say. Yes or no? if I said yes he might blab…

I wont tell anyone, said Tom, reading my mind. Just be truthful. All right then, I did it, I muttered, and his jaw dropped as he stared at me.

You’re not joking? I said no. Tom was breathing very hard right now. Make something happen again, then.

I looked around, then I saw Deyon holding his ball as he watched us.

Ok then, watch this, I said, nodding at Deyon. The ball shot from his hands, bouncing everywhere. It flew sky high, knocking Maurice on the head, bouncing down the market, then it shot backwards, straight into Deyon’s hands again. Deyon stamped his foot, annoyed.

Something’s wrong with my ball! I’ll tell my Nan to get a new one! No way! said Tom, shocked. You- you just- it was you!

He was talking about all those times we played football and the ball never did what he wanted. I nodded, smirking at him. He smiled back, surprisingly, then I said You cant tell anyone, ok? I’ll get burnt up!

What? said Tom, puzzled. How?

I explained what the books in the library said about witches and their punishments. Tom nodded.

Ok then. I said I wouldn’t tell anyone anyway. Who else knows?

Only Roxy, I replied, and he nodded. Swear not to tell anyone?

I promise, said Tom, and we linked little fingers before turning and walking back to everyone. Then Roxy grabbed me and dragged me away as well, everyone groaning.

Roxy, let her come and play!

Shut up! said Roxy, then she said Is Tom John your boyfriend?

Don’t be stupid, I said, nudging her. He just wanted to know that I chucked the eggs at him… and I said yes. And he promised not to say anything, that’s all.

Roxy nodded and we went back to play. I loved playing Spin the Bottle! Nobody else took all of their dares. My reputation is everlasting on this island. Then everything was spoilt when someone said to go to the meadow. It was seven o clock: I wasn’t allowed. Tom John said nothing this time, smiling at me. I smiled back as I made my way home, deep in thought. Why wasn’t I allowed in the meadow at night?? It wasn’t fair, not to me. Roxy was going! Maybe if I asked if I could go with Roxy Daddy would say yes. Freddie goes to the meadow some evenings, that’s why Roxy can go- because her Dad’s keeping an eye on her. And me, if I go next time.

* * *

About a week later I wondered if I should just pretend I was going to Roxy’s house and then go with everyone to the meadow at night. Roxy said it was fun last time: everyone brought torches and played Hide and Seek, and when their Mum’s or Dad’s came looking for them they all hid in the bushes and scared them to death. I was jealous now as I listened to everything they did there, that I missed out on.

It was great! said Roxy happily, skipping next to me. Come, Coll!

I cant, you know that already, I said unhappily, feeling jealous as Deyon went and got his ActionMan torch from inside his house.

Hey Roxy, Tom’s bringing water balloons tonight! Are you coming?

Yes! said Roxy happily, waving bye as we walked towards the beach. Coll, you should come tonight, you know! I know you cant, but still-

Abuela’s coming tonight, and so is my sister, I said, sighing.

Roxy shrugged. Tanya can come with you, cant she? She did last time, remember? She came with us to the meadow!

She’s only visiting- with her mother, I said sullenly, and right on cue a pretty red car pulled up outside our house. I saw Erica and Tanya Lawson step out, Abuela greeting