Chapter 3

Helpful Advice

The end of the school day was drawing to a close and Luchia, Rina, Mia and Blaze were waiting for Hanon outside of the school. Normally they would be waiting for Luchia but they knew that the reason for Hanon being late was because she had been told that she was going to show Karen around the school.

"Sorry I'm late. I just wanted to show Karen around the school a little more." Hanon said as she walked out of the school entrance with Karen not too far behind, much to Blaze's disappointment.

"What's she doing here?"

"Karen's coming over to our place today."

"What will mum say about this?"

"She won't mind, she'll just be happy that I'm making new friends."

"Fine, she can come, just make sure she doesn't cause too much trouble." Blaze told his sister, who just rolled her eyes before heading away from the school.

"Mum, we're home!" Hanon called upon entering the house with her brother, gesturing to Karen to enter as well.

"How was school? Did you get there on time?"

"Yep, we did. Mom there's someone I'd like you to meet. This is Karen Jones a new girl in our class."

"Nice to meet you." Karen said shyly, looking down at the ground while Mrs. Bradshaw just smiled.

"It's nice to meet you too. Hanon why don't you and your new friend go upstairs, I need to speak with Blaze."

"Okay." Hanon said, unsure of what was about to happen, but went upstairs regardless.

"Blaze, what's wrong?"

"Nothing's wrong."

"I've known you long enough to know when something's wrong." His mother replied, watching Blaze sigh before he said anything.

"It's just that... there's something strange about Karen. I've told Luchia and Rina about it but they just said that I was being paranoid. What should I do?"

"Karen has only just arrived in the class so you're not going to know much about her. Get to know her and if you still think that something's wrong then have a word with Luchia, Rina and Mia."

"Okay, thanks for the advice mum."

"You're welcome. Would you help me set up the table for tea? I know Hanon normally helps me but we should let her have some time with her friend."

"Yeah, sure." Blaze agreed, getting the plates and cutlery and began to lay the table, though his mind was still on Karen and what she was up to.