They rushed into the classroom 5 minutes late to the disapproval of Mr. Clarkson. "Right year 11, guess what you are doing today. You lucky teens are going to do a bit of creative writing for your coursework." Serena's face lit up as she tried to contain her excitement while the rest of the class groaned. Ash didn't join them though as he had a secret passion for creative writing himself. Mr. Clarkson continued talking. "So, you can pick any genre you like. As long as it's original. That means no plagiarising, Ms. Rhiannon Salt." Everyone laughed at his remark as she was persistent plagiariser. "You may now begin in absolute silence, using only your plan which you prepared last week. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask." Serena looked at her planning sheet and noticed something she didn't like. In fine print, it stated that the maximum for this piece of coursework was 2,000 words. Serena became disheartened as she scanned over the number for a second time. She raised her hand. "Yes Miss Tyler?"
"Sir, it says there's a limit of 2,000 words for the coursework."
"Yes there is."
"So does that mean I can't go over it otherwise I fail?"
"Not necessarily Serena. But don't go too overboard. I know you and how much you like to write."
"What do you mean by overboard?"
"I mean, don't write any more than 2,500 cause then you'd be pushing it."
"Ok, sir." Serena wrote at 50 words per minute for the rest of class until Mr. Clarkson shouted out "stop!" Everyone except Serena and Ash was relieved at the sudden end to the lesson. Their bags were packed away violently as they all left in a haste to Mr. Clarkson's dismay. "Was it really that bad guys?" asked Mr. Clarkson.
"Yes," said a boy called Ben.
"Well, your friend over there seemed to enjoy it." Mr. Clarkson gestured over to Ash. "Maybe you've taken a leaf out of Serena's book Ash."
"I've always liked writing stories sir. Ever since I was in Nursery," replied Ash. "Really? It seems that you have a hidden talent then."
"Oh no. I love it, but I don't think I'm gonna be the next J.K Rowling any time soon."
"Never say never Ash. We've all got it in us to become aspirational writers. You've just gotta believe in yourself and have a passion for it which you already have. You're half-way there already!"
"Thanks, sir. Anyway, me and Serena need to go get some lunch now."
"Oh right, have fun on your date then." Tom winked at them. Serena instantly blushed and retracted his statement. "Do you think we're going out with each other, sir?"
"No, but you two seem like you'd make a good couple. Especially now that I know you both share an undying passion for creative writing."
"Right…" Serena felt a little awkward.
"See you later," said Mr. Clarkson. Ash politely closed the door behind him.