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‘Let’s go to the salon and get free coffees and talk about outfits.’

Kelly stopped walking. ‘Ican’t. I shouldn’t be out of school this early. Sarah might say it to Mum and then she’ll know I mitched off and she’ll kill me.’

‘It’s fine. Mum won’t even notice. I’ll say I asked you to come straight to the salon because I desperately needed you to help me with a science project and you came over because you’re such a kind friend.’

When they reached the salon, they hurried through into theback room. Sarah came in after them. ‘What are you two up to?’

‘Kelly’s helping me with my science project and we need caffeine to help us concentrate.’

‘What science project?’ she asked, arms folded, staring at her daughter.

‘The one I’m doing for next week.’

‘You never mentioned it before.’

‘I did, actually, but you were too busy with Ollie as usual, probably peeling him off a wall somewhere,to listen.’

‘Really?’ Sarah smiled. ‘What’s it about, then?’

‘It’s about the science of … of …’

‘The planets and how they work,’ Kelly fudged.

‘That’s a big subject.’

‘Which is why I need Kelly’s help,’ Shannon said. ‘Now go away, Mum. We need to work.’

Sarah left them, muttering, ‘Likely story.’

Kelly made them both cappuccinos and they sat on the couch chatting about what Kelly shouldwear on Saturday to the cinema.

‘I think you should wear your red dress with the denim jacket and those cool black boots. You’re a ride in that. He won’t be able to keep his hands off you. Mind you, you’re a stunner in anything you wear, you lucky cow.’

Kelly smiled. She liked that dress and knew she looked good in it. People told her all the time that she was good-looking, but Kelly had neverfelt it. She’d always been tall and scrawny, not a bit sexy like Shannon, who was all curves and boobs.

‘Come over to me early on Saturday and I’ll help you get ready, okay?’ Shannon suggested.

Kelly finished her coffee. ‘Cool. I can’t wait!’

A date with Sean. Kelly had kissed a few boys, but never really fancied anyone except Sean. She’d liked him for nearly a year. She’d never admitted itto anyone but Shannon. She preferred to keep things private – it was better that way: there was less chance of getting hurt.