"Jerome, why can't you just get rid of your stupid grudge and help me find dad!"
Poppy Clarke was following closely behind her brother in the student-filled hallway. She needed Jerome's input, and she wasn't giving up without a fight.
Jerome spun around suddenly, causing his little sister to ram into him. Poppy stumbled backwards. "I'm not going to be wrapped up in this pointless mission of yours. Dad abandoned us. Abandon your hopes about finding him. Now, leave me alone." Jerome turned on his heal and began to walk away.
Poppy had it. Fists at her sides, Poppy said, "You're impossible! No wonder Dad beat you!"
Jerome stopped, midstride, and turned to his sister, jaw set. "Never. Mention that to me. Again." Jerome hissed. He quickly ran off.
"Gah!" Poppy fumed. She walked over to her locker. Forcing it open, Poppy noticed a note fall from the top shelf onto the floor. Slowly, Poppy picked it up.
Poppy,
I understand you're looking for your father. I think I could be of your assistance. Call me with the number that is on the back of this note.
-Rufus Z
Poppy looked around the emptying hallway, wondering who could've left this in her locker. No one besides Jerome and Mara knew she was looking for her dad. Maybe it was Jerome, trying to play a prank on her, but she doubted it.
She flipped over the piece of paper to look at the phone number. I'll call the number later, Poppy thought as she stuffed the note into her bookbag.
The late bell rang. Poppy grabbed her math textbook, shut her locker, and ran.