Simon never liked the first day of school. Of course, he liked getting out of the house for eight full hours, but it was always frightening: ironing his uniform, getting his books together, getting to sleep at the right time, finding his locker, opening it, finding classes, being on time (Not too early or too late) (Simon had been too early once) (He didn't like to talk about it).
And as he clambered onto the bus, he couldn't help but be nervous as he slid into a seat. He took a seat by the bus driver since the older kids usually didn't bother him as much when he sat up front. As the bus pulled away from the curb, he kept his backpack on his lap and his lunchbox securely inside (he learned to keep it that way, it was harder to steal). Simon knew it was only a few more stops until the bus began picking up the other choirboys. Though he didn't often talk with them (not that he really talked to anyone), but he felt safe in their company, they were like a flock of birds surrounding him, sheltering him. Or zebras, protecting the baby zebra. He had seen a chart about that at the zoo.
He looked out the window as they whizzed past empty sidewalks and trees. Simon sucked in a breath as the bus pulled to a stop, pitching him forward a bit.
It was Maurice's stop, and the boy climbed onto the bus. He greeted the bus driver and grinned when he spotted Simon. "Hey, Si," he said, sitting down next to the smaller boy. "Happy 1st Day of School."
The corners of Simon's mouth tugged up in a half-smile. "Thanks, Maurice," he said quietly, and the other boy's grin widened.
"No need to be nervous," Maurice said, storing his backpack away under his feet. "And if anyone bothers you, just let me know. I'll tell Roger. He can handle them." Simon flushed. Maurice always looked out for him, especially when the older boys picked on him, and the threat of Roger usually subdued them. Something about the boy inspired fear in others, even the older kids.
"Thanks," Simon muttered.
"This year will be different, Si… you'll see," Maurice reassured, taking Simon's hand and giving it a squeeze. Simon flushed again, and the older boy continued, "And if things ever get rough, you can just come over to my place."
Simon knew exactly what Maurice was referring to and nodded. "I'll remember that."
Maurice, having gotten his message across, smiled and released Simon's hand. "Good," he replied. When Simon didn't say anything, Maurice added, "And remember, choir practice after school today." Simon nodded, and the older boy grinned, saying, "You're a good kid, Simon." Then he pulled Simon into a quick hug.
Simon left the bus feeling a lot less nervous than he had when he got on.
