Frank was sitting with Callie, Iola, and Chet at a picnic table in front of Bayport High. He had just explained the new developments in the case. "My Dad is at the police station right now to figure out if the license plate is registered to anyone in Bayport. If not, we'll have to cast out net a bit wider, but I'm guess-"
He was cut off by the expression on Iola's face. She had been chewing on the back of a pen, but it now dropped into her lap. Callie, too, froze with her jaw dropped.
Strolling up the sidewalk to the school was Ron, Adam, Randy, and-
It was Joe, but not as Frank had ever seen. He sported a leather jacket, no tie, and his slacks were rolled up slightly. His hair, which was usually combed down, was now arranged in a shiny tidal wave that fell onto his forehead.
Joe noticed them looking at him, and he smirked, shooting Iola a wink. Callie started laughing at the partially revolted, partially impressed expression on Frank and Chet's faces. Iola had begun to fan herself with her notebook.
"Gee, isn't he a dreamboat! Say, Frank, I know you're not supposed to be seen with him, but does that apply to me too?"
Frank sighed but smiled. "No, Iola you can talk to him. Try not to compliment him too much though; his head's big enough as it is."
She smiled, and then hurried to catch up to Joe.
Chet frowned. "You think chicks would dig me if I did my hair like that?" He messed with his buzzcut.
Callie and Frank laughed. "Not a chance, old pal," Frank said as the bell rang. "Your hair is about as malleable as a brick."