Pages - Book 3: Pages, #3

By EA Harwik

Pages - Book 3, by EA Harwik - A modern family saga. ------ ISBN: 9780980677652

Pages - Book 3 is the story of the two younger Page siblings, Peta and Jamie. Unlike their older brother David, Peta and Jamie are the product of a privileged boarding school education.

The Pages trilogy will question and define the boundaries of normal in modern society. Where secrets challenge the fabric of friendship and family. --------- Book 1 - ISBN: 9780980677621 = Book 2 - ISBN: 9780980677645

• Language: English
• Publisher: EA Harwik
• Release date: Jul 30, 2022
• ISBN: 9780980677652

Book preview

Pages

(Book 3)

Peta and Jamie

By EA Harwik

Chapter 01

CLASS. WE HAVE FINALLY completed the rating process for your creative writing assignment. Shortly your contribution will be returned and I intend to devote this lesson to an open discussion of the results, our assessment and any other concerns you may have about this subject’s benefit to you next term.

Miss Goodchild paused, dipped her head down and to one side, appearing distracted. She clasped both hand together in front of her chest and inwardly smiled a moment before returning her focus to the room. I will kick the discussion off by explaining why the assessment process has taken so long. She shook her head, seemed amused before adding. Perhaps I should first explain; writing is a solitary pursuit. However success from professionally applied writing is to draw human interest across all levels of the public perspective.

Again she paused, surveyed the room, then focusing on one student. Miss Page. We will commence our discussion with your work. Please come forward, stand beside me and face the class.

Peta Page felt her heart sink. At fourteen years of age and a six-year veteran of boarding school she knew a public flogging didn’t necessarily involve sticks or the throwing of stones.

Experience told Peta there was no way to avoid the next few minutes. The die was cast the moment she put pen to paper, or more precisely, her fingers met the keyboard. She stood, clasped her hands together, bowed her head, practised a demure expression and slowly walked towards the axeman’s block.

She knew her classmates. Some, her colleges in the war against authority, will smile encouragement to remind a comrade to remain true. Others, the stuck-up, plum mouthed, polo watching rich set, snots, will smile just to satisfy their heart felt desire to witness a pong being shoved headfirst into the swamp of life. A few, the simple-minded hangers-on, snorts, will smile because they always brainlessly smile. And one, Beverly Applebloom, will openly cry. No one, not even Beverly Applebloom knows why she always cries out of concern for others. At boarding school, even Beverly Applebloom knows to constantly smile is the only way to avoid unwanted scrutiny.

Peta knew one thing. She will not really cry, nor will she really smile. She will take what is to come on the chin, act out what is wanted, and wait. Her battle with authority will be fought when the enemy is dispersed and on their knees. A gorilla fighter does not surrender.

Peta don’t look so glum. You’re not in trouble. We’re standing together, in front of the class, because what I have to say will help other class members who are as serious about their writing as yourself. Miss Goodchild smiled kindly and rolled her eyes. It may also help us both weather any nasty little rumours that will inevitably filter along the corridors after dark.

Miss Goodchild turning her attention to the class. Peta earned a distinction for her essay and in doing so actually rated top of school, which is quite an achievement for a junior.

Her essay was a wonderfully written, creatively contrived letter from a daughter to her mother. The daughter’s angst and uncertainty is uncovered. She’s being held in a nastily administered boarding school where all kind of troublesome behaviours put the girl’s future at risk. According to the protagonist’s mindset this situation has occurred purely so the mother might trip the world in a private jet, freed from parental responsibility. The girl pleads her case to be permitted to leave the school and reunite with her mother.

Miss Goodchild took a small break to smile kindly at a more relaxed Peta before pushing on with her oratory. Peta’s assay is a brilliant piece of believable fiction. It high-lights the protagonists powerless frustration and within another layer identifies life’s metaphor; the problems facing our ambitious young folk who are forced to endure a world controlled by dissatisfied old people who no longer have anything constructive to say.

Miss Goodchild, while handing Peta a pile of essays, lowered her tone and spoke directly to the girl. "Peta if you would hand out everyone’s assignment I’ll explain part two of the saga your essay created. It’s the reason for my impromptu lesson. I feel we need to get this done before fielding specific questions about anyone’s actual assignment. 

Miss Goodchild spoke louder to be heard over the ebb and flow of local conversations. Only Peta listened closely. What I’m going to explain now is something you will need to address only if you intend to become a professional fiction writer and actually possess the skill to do so. Peta’s essay was impressive enough to have several of the Essay Assessment Committee members believe her story was obviously autobiographical. In short each believed what they read and could relate to the story told. That is, they believed the child in the story must have been Peta Page expressing her own views of the world around her. They therefore concluded the school about which she wrote must have been this school.  And the mother must have been her mother. As proof of their conclusion, or perhaps the other way round, they fielded newspaper articles from the entertainment columns of our national press. These articles identify several well-established benefactors of this school, overseas, living the high-life in company with Peta’s mother. The conclusion they came to, for them, was obvious. Peta Page is writing what amounts to subversive trash and if allowed to continue will bring the school into disrepute, even impact on the schools ability to raise funds in the future.

That’s ridiculous.  I only wanted to... Peta spoke loudly from the back of the room and obviously checked her exposure in mid-sentence. The frustration of her tone caused a deafening silence.

Miss Goodchild raised her eyebrows and with a slight tilt of her head replied through a charmingly amused, smiling expression. I couldn’t agree with you more Miss Page. And as it turns out so does Headmistress. Headmistress personally intervened to overrule all objections.

Miss Goodchild took a breath. However because Headmistresses are required to be moulded from wisely stock. And because the before mentioned newsworthy articles didn’t actually reveal any well established benefactors but rather identified several known yet very private and as it turns out, somewhat Bohemian, well established school benefactors. And also because of a rather controversial incident, which occurred sometime ago that actually involved this department and as it turns out me personally, of which I intend to say nothing, other than I’m as surprised as everyone else to discover the disgraceful incident took place under the complete scrutiny of those very same recently discovered school benefactors. She rolled her head again and looked directly at Peta. Headmistress has decided not to allow your deserving article to be printed in the school magazine until she has personally sent a copy to, and received approval from, your mother, Ms Wott... She quickly checked herself before adding, Sister Veronica, Mr Matthew Wotton and Billie Hope.

She lowered her tone; spoke personally to Peta. Should be a formality. We’ll have your creative flare fully recognised before prize giving. She smiled again and rolled her eyes. Headmistress has penned a remark in red under our remarks on your essay, which I feel, you should heed before ours. It’s a gem. She read from the paper in her hand before handing the same to Peta. "Excellent.——My advice for a young lady such as we have here; identify, in all haste, the tenth novel from  ‘A Series of Unfortunate Events’, by Lemony Snicket. 

PETA. I DIDN’T RIDE all the way here to watch you sulk. What do you want?

Jamie Page, Peta’s sixteen year old brother had been summoned by yet another mini emergency. He’d got approval from his House Master, rode his bicycle from his boarding school to Peta’s then escorted her to the local fast food outlet. She hadn’t yet spoken a word. Though she looked ready to explode. 

You know what I want?

I have no idea what you want. I thought you must have broken a leg. But, I can see you haven’t.

Buy me a Chocolate Frappé.

Buy your own Chocolate milk with a dollop a cream stuck on the top.

I haven’t got any money.

Why don’t you tell me what is so important to need me here? Then, when you’re back at your dormitory, make a chocolate-milk in the kitchen. Costs nothing. And I’ll be able to go back to what I was doing before you interrupted me.

What were you doing?

None of your business.

How much of last months allowance have you spent?

None.

Where is it?

In the bank. I haven’t touched any of Mum’s allowance this term.

So you’re wasting it. Give it to me.

I’m not giving you any money.

What are you going to do with the money?

Give it all back to Mum.

Waste it. You don’t care about money because you’ve got a job.

It’s not our money. It belongs to Mum. I’m going to payback every cent Mum spent on my education. And with time I intend to do the same to everyone else who helped me, helped us.

Who? Why? They’re not getting any of my money. No one helps me.

Jamie shook his head. God Peta you are so selfish. Who’s been paying your scholarship to attend boarding school all these years? Who drove you back and forward to get here? A forty-six hour round trip, eight times every year. Each trip nearly kills her. She does it because she loves you, cares about you; wants only the best for you. It’s much, much more than Mum was ever given. Who’s paying for the plane we fly in now, the cost to run it; my flying lessons? The clothes we wear. Everything. We owe many people so much. And I’m going to repay them by becoming a success, earning my own money and more, enough to return what they gave me with interest. So those people can help someone else. I hope to join with them and give others the opportunity to achieve more. 

What a spiritually uplifting biography your life is going to make. Next you’ll tell me you want to go to Africa and dig wells so poor little brown babies can clean their teeth three time a day.

Peta rolled her eyes while rotating her head. Sad story, didn’t work. I’m going to tell Mum what you do to save her pocket money.

Mum knows I work in a shop. Said she’s proud of me.

She thinks you work in a clothing shop. You omitted to explain you sell lingerie. Spend your Thursday evening touching up old women. You’re a pervert."

Peta. What’s the point to all this bickering?

I want the credit card. I know you’ve got one. And I want your allowance. All of it, all the money you haven’t spent; everything in your account. I want the phone too. Peta stared daggers at Jamie. If you don’t hand everything over, by the time we get home, I’m going to tell Mum you and Mitsuko sleep together. I’ll tell Mum Mitsuko is in the family way and you’re the father.

God Peta. You know as well as I do Mitsuko wouldn’t sleep around. And if she wanted to, she’d hardly be interested in a nobody like me. Jamie shook a hand in frustration. Honestly Peta. If you start spreading rumours like that you’ll get Mitsuko into trouble she doesn’t deserve. He shook his head. And if her parents hear anything the like of what you’ve just said. They’ll ban their daughters from being near either of us. Meaning you won’t see Kimi anymore. Grow some brains. Don’t be so selfish.

Got you scared haven’t I? Why have you got a credit card anyway? Mum won’t let me have one.

Peta, I’m sure you must have maggots in your brain. Mum didn’t give me a credit card. Billie gave me the card, and it’s not a credit card, it’s a debit card. To purchase fuel and supplies for the airplane, so we can safely get home. Mitsuko and Ethel both have one as well, for their aeroplane. Same reason.

I still want it. And the phone.

The phone is for emergencies. Mum won’t let you have a phone because she knows you’re a complete wing nut. Now that we’ve resolved all your pressing problems, can I take you back to school?

I’m not a baby. I don’t need to be taken to school.

Miss Goodchild said I’m to take you to the dormitory door and watch you lock it behind you. That was a condition of you meeting me. And that’s what we’re going to do.

I want a Chocolate Frappé before I go back. Give me the money to pay for it.

God Peta. Okay, I’ll buy the bloody chocolate drink. Anything... but I’m not giving you any money. You’ll pocket my change and waste it.

You’re a tight arse and a moron. I’m going to tell Mum you’ve started swearing. I want a small fries too. And I’m still going to get what I need. Don’t for one-minute think I won’t; you’ll regret the day you tried to pull the wool over my eyes.

HEY. THIS IS NO TIME for tears. Is something the matter?

Billie had asked the question. She was speaking to Margery Page, Marge, her mother. Marge was also Peta and Jamie’s mother. Though because of the complication of their upbringing, to Peta and Jamie, Billie is a recently adopted or pretend sister. A deception created to avoid a gambit of question while the younger siblings grow old enough to understand the complexities of life and social morality. Marge and Billie were separated at birth. Marge was young and had no support so the church did what they knew to be best, which was rather cruel for all concerned. Marge and Billie had met recently, quite by accident, a common friend and another sibling, David and friends of friends. Billie and Marge hit it off even before each knew who the other really was and... well... lots of things had changed with both of them over recent months.

They were currently alone, together, in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, flying a light aeroplane, Marge’s new aircraft.

Delivering a light aircraft across the Pacific Ocean with the rear seats removed to accommodate additional fuel tanks was a first for Marge but not Billie. Billie is a professional Pilot. Marge, like her son Jamie was new to flying. This flight was good navigation experience and quite frankly a wonderful opportunity to make up for lost time, time alone with her eldest child of which Marge knew so little. Even though she had agonised over the detail multiple times very single day for the last thirty-four years.

Sorry. I... I’m okay. I’ve been looking at my emails and there is one from Peta’s Headmistress. Actually the email is addressed to you as well, and Sissy, and Matthew. We all need to approve the content of Peta’s latest assignment before it can be published in the school magazine. I’m not sure I want to see that particular essay in the school magazine. I guess Headmistress must think the same.

Marge looked away from the windscreen, eyed Billie. I spend a lot of time wondering what is going to become of Peta.

Billie smiled, Peta is okay. She’s just exploring the bounds of her own intellect. Girls like Peta are quite common in boarding school. They gravitate together forming social hubs. It’s even encouraged by the school, and it’s kind of stupid because the various hubs become quite competitive. In many cases girls within the same hubs even compete for status. It’s outrageous and yet it’s not. Expensive schools are all about training children to compete in the top end of town. Even though the private school girls are groomed to feel special, working class suburbs have the same thing, street gangs. Yet up market church schools, with a focus on social privilege, never accept Gang Bangers frequenting their establishment. Only because they invent much more subtle names to describe the situation.

Marge smiled and wiped her eyes, Were you an upmarket Gang Banger at school?

I don’t know. Probably. I was always competitive. Still am; and always something of a loner, which was frowned upon by the school, swings and roundabouts. Who cares? I survived and we’re doing okay.

Billie thought a moment. What we should take from Peta’s assignment is how talented she is at writing. I suspect your reluctance to see that particular story printed is because it shadows what you experienced living in the Monastery at New Norcia. That could mean Peta is on to you... us. Though it’s more likely she researched the topic professionally. Everyone in religious care was treated so back then. But as I said what we should take away from the experience is just how accomplished Peta is at presenting a believable argument. We should be proud of, and encourage her. Her peers should be permitted see the story in the magazine to recognise her talent. May even encourage Peta to work harder and improve further, which is actually what you want. Coincidentally it’s also what she wants and what she needs.

Marge touched and lightly squeezed Billie’s arm. You win. You’re right. Do we need to tell Sissy and Matthew?

No. Sissy knows what to do. So will Matthew, because Sissy will have already told him. Billie kept talking but changed topics. Do you feel up to having only a short break on Tarawa, at Bonriki Airport? We’ve two more hours before we arrive. The weather is perfect so we could turn the plane around in say four hours then push onto Cairns today. No reason why we couldn’t take turns to have a nap if we get tired. Will put us a day ahead of schedule and allow us time to fly via Toowoomba, see the kids before they set off for home.

Sure. I feel fine. I’m itching to be home? Getting there a day early sounds great. Are you worried about the kids flying alone?

No they’ll be fine. The flying is all factored in. Jamie sent me a note; he’s concerned. Apparently Peta has been rather extreme this week. She’s all wound up and fighting with him over everything and nothing. He’s concerned she may be irrational enough to do something dangerous in the aeroplane. Plus Mitsuko has also been in touch and she expressed the same concern about Kimi. They might be nervous or on some silly campaign they’ve concocted between them. Who knows? If we turn up unannounced and the girls are acting up we can take them home with us.

Plus if Kimi and Peta do come with us, Jamie and Mitsuko will be able to leave one plane in Toowoomba and fly via our place together. Then, depending what gives, Kimi will probably be fine travelling home with Mitsuko from our place. Peta and Kimi could fit in with Najwa and Maliha in the Fox Moth if we phone and ask Anahita to take it, still be home tomorrow tonight. I know she’ll use the Leopard Moth if we say nothing. She loves that plane. Billie made quick eye contact to roll her eyes. If Peta and Kimi are playing up I’d rather Anahita didn’t have the distraction onboard.

Anyway, after these holidays, one of you can deliver all the girls together in a larger aircraft. Mitsuko and Jamie, and Ethel and Daphne will be able to fly back to school together, which I’m sure Mitsuko and Jamie will prefer. Not sure about Ethel, she never complains but I suspect she’s busting to turn seventeen so she can fly straight home. Billie rolled her eyes. And it would be wonderful if Peta and Kimi could somehow become as easy going as Daphne.

Marge looked across the aeroplane again. Sure. I’d like to be there to see them off. She grinned. And show you off.

Okay. Take the controls for a minute while I send a quick note to the Master Chief. He can still stay the night by the sea to satisfy Mrs Master Chief’s grand plan and make Cairns in time to meet us there. He’ll happily turn the plane around with typical military precision. Then, while we have a well-earned rest in a Cairns motel he’ll have time to organise removing the transit tanks and fit the rear seat. Bet you when we front up at Cairns airport ready to go the plane will also be washed and polished. Billie waved a finger in front of her face. Might prove rather sensible. The deep-pocketed aeroplane fliers picking up their children in Toowoomba will be somewhat envious of your new wheels. If the planets align we might actually initiate a few orders to help pay the bills. Should arrange a quick press conference if you feel up to it.

Marge thought a moment. What’s Mrs Master Chief real name?

Billie looked up from her computer. Mrs Master Chief.

Chapter 02

JAMIE WAS COMPLETELY absorbed in preparing the aircraft for flight. He, like his fellow pilots, Mitsuko and Ethel, loved the independence of being permitted to travel home alone. All three took the responsibility for a safe trip seriously. Being raised in the Australian outback they knew only too well once they left the populated coastal strip they were on their own. There was nothing out there. Even if they survived a crash it was unlikely they would easily be found. Plus the chance of randomly finding water to survive on in the outback was next to non-existent. And there was the problem of navigation, if you missed the odd small town or occasional feature used to mark the route, there was no way to discover where you were. 

Jamie checked the fluid levels, tanks for moisture, the engine, the tyres and control surfaces. Everything was fine. He loaded and secured the luggage.

With the cockpit instruments and internal power checked, Jamie exited his plane and walked to the one beside his, Mitsuko was sitting in the cockpit performing the same activities on an identical aeroplane. Further over, in the third of four parking bays, Ethel worked on pre-flight preparation of yet another identical plane. In Ethel’s case, Daphne, her young sister, tagged along helping with every task.

Like Peta and Kimi, Jamie and Mitsuko’s young sisters, Daphne was fourteen but she was nowhere near as hostile or troublesome as her two classmates.

On break-up day they always felt quite lucky. Their planes were owned and serviced by Hope Air and sat waiting, fully prepared and fuelled, in private bays outside the Airline Charter Business’s main transit hanger. A perk of being friends with Billie, Jamie’s newly found, older sister. Billie owned the Air Charter Business. She supplied the planes and pilot lessons to help overcome the difficulty on the families of retrieving the children and travelling home for the holidays.

Only fifty yards away, on the arrival and transit tarmac area, some thirty-five varying sized light aircraft crowded for space with owners begging to be next at securing fuel from pumps unable to cope with so many rapid turn-around visitors. The same happened every holiday. Arguments and the occasional fight were regularly heard and witnessed.

ETHEL AND DAPHNE’S parents both worked on Mitsuko and Kimi’s parent’s property, Barkley Station, one thousand two hundred miles away. The four girls travel the whole trip together. They fly in separate planes because the older girls, the pilots, being younger than seventeen are only permitted to carry one passenger and can only travel during daylight hours.

Jamie and Peta live closer, on Pituri Downs, a mere eight hundred and ninety miles from school.

The plan is always the same. After school on break up day they fly the first three hundred and sixty miles to Charleville arriving just before dark sets in. They camp the night beside the planes and take off at first light the next day, travelling via Longreach and Mount Isa. At Mount Isa, Mitsuko and Ethel set off to the north with another three hundred and twenty mile to travel. They arrive home in the afternoon on the second day.

At Mount Isa, Jamie heads south, for the one hundred and sixty mile journey to Pituri Downs. The route via Mount Isa is further for Jamie but they all agree to stay together as long as possible, for company and to help each other out if it were ever necessary.

Jamie smiled at Mitsuko through the window. Nearly ready?

Mitsuko merely nodded, then added with a roll of her eyes. Kimi and Peta should be here by now. Shall I text Kimi?

Jamie smiled, Lets wait a few minutes, we’ve got half an hour up our sleeve. Personally I’m glad they haven’t turned up before all our pre-flight checks are safely complete. Besides I’d rather walk down there than give Peta the satisfaction of justifying the need for a phone.

Ethel and Daphne joined them, with Ethel saying, We’re... Ethel was distracted looking toward the runway watching the Leopard Moth, piloted by Anahita, increase revs to commence takeoff. The same plane had stopped in front of them a few minutes earlier, loaded Najwa and Maliha, without even stopping the engine. Didn’t require refuelling like everyone else, just a quick wave and all three set off. Pituri Downs next stop. In six hours twenty minutes they’d step from the plane and sleep in their own bed. Ethel shook her head and muttered more to herself than anyone else. And they wanted to travel with us; sleep tonight on the ground. When I grow up... She smiled at Mitsuko. We’re good to go. Do we know where your number two’s are?

Mitsuko expanded her eyes, They really are number two’s at the moment. They’re full-filling social obligations. She pointed at the shops adjacent to the airfield.

Jamie was preparing to add to his previous comment while still staring at the Leopard Moth climbing away from the ground already turning toward home. Yet he was distracted by the unusually loud sound of a fast aircraft coming into land. All four turned their head toward the runway.

In silence they witnessed a sleek, expensive looking, rapidly approaching, steeply descending, canard winged, dual tail finned, pusher prop aircraft on final approach. The aircraft touched down smoothly and quickly consumed runway making no effort to slow down. Before reaching the end of the runway the plane revved, lifted skyward, climbing steeply and obviously commenced to go round for another approach.

Mitsuko spoke, Wow. Someone’s getting good cattle prices. Do you think they’ll manage to pull up next try?

Jamie smile had stretched from ear to ear. Yes. They’ll pull up no trouble. We know who that is? That pass was theatre, just to get everyone’s attention. Jamie pointed at the tarmac where all activity had frozen. Every eye was fixed, following the aeroplane fly round to make another approach.

Jamie almost laughed out loud and said to Mitsuko. Didn’t you read the writing along the side of that plane?

Tried to. Couldn’t make it out.

Jamie said, I couldn’t either but I know what it says. I’ve seen photos. It has Hope Air logos on both tails. Jamie parroted what he knew was written on the plane. Shoshone Pride. Bluegrass Campus.  He grinned and added the statement Mitsuko and Jamie used regularly to remind them of Billie. Might have been, ‘Follow the science.’ Just for you. 

Mitsuko bit her lip and stepped from her plane. Billie. With her latest creation? She added with a roll of her head, Figures. And talking specifically to Ethel, You remember Billie. The bedroom carpenter, who flew us home in her fancy bi-plane. Apparently this is her latest design. Seems she’s now building rocket ships. She also happens to be Jamie’s brainy big Sister.

Jamie said, That’s Mum’s new plane. They’re supposed to be flying it across the Pacific Ocean together. Think they’re a day ahead of schedule. Probably calling in here to show it off. He pointed at the watchers on the tarmac. I’d say Billie is looking to impress those guys. We know she’s super smart. Bet she manages to sell a few.

The plane swept in on a very short approach, pulled up quickly amidst the roar of a reversing propeller. The unusual shaped plane taxied gracefully past the onlookers and came to a stop in the vacant space beside Ethel’s plane.

The moment the engine stopped service personnel from Hope Air swarmed, obviously to re-fuel and prepare the plane for yet another skyward adventure.

MARGE’S SMILE EXITED the plane’s butterfly door before her body. She almost ran to Jamie and took him in a large cuddle that could easily have suffocated her boy.

When she came up for air she offered, Did I surprise you? Where’s Peta?

Jamie pointed at the Shops some two hundred yards away. Stuffing her face with friends and clogging her mind with giggly gossip. He lowered his tone. I thought you were timing your flight to arrive home just before us tomorrow.

We sped up a day to come see you. Plus I wanted to show Billie off. She rolled her eyes, Which was silly. These people know her better than we do. Billie thought this gathering was ripe for showing off the new plane. She’s much too clever for me.

Marge remembered her manners. Spoke a greeting to Mitsuko, Ethel and Daphne and received the same nicety in reply.

BY NOW MARGE’S AEROPLANE, a Velocity SP-BGC, was surrounded and being closely observed by a crowd of aeroplane owners, many with children in tow. All were keen to checkout the new fast moving, sleek, aircraft ownership fashion statement.

Though few knew her personally, several onlookers recognised Billie. The rest knew of her reputation such that when they heard her name spoken... well. Billie is wealthy enough to be considered friend material. The better-healed, aeroplane flying, broad-acre property owners knew Hope Air, her company, amongst other activities had the Government contract to deliver their mail. Knowing another high roller’s face is always a good portfolio addition in the politically active top end of the rural sector. 

Many spoke to, or introduced themself to Billie, though few knew what the plane actually was. This was the first American designed Velocity aircraft to grace wheels upon an Australian runway.

Though if Billie gets her way it won’t be a mystery visitor for long. She made a point of giving the question asking people her card, with an attached flier describing the aeroplane details. Knowing she has a major pecuniary interest in and was the driving force behind Shoshone Pride Superior Carriage Company who assemble, modified and marketed these aircraft for private, commercial sale made Billie even more worthy.

For Billie, several invitations to take tea, meet the little woman and family, and provide a private demonstration of the plane, at a number of old money family properties was definitely worthy of follow up research. Though Billie knew well, invites such as these require careful vetting to generate or achieve exploitation free commercial success.

JAMIE, WATCHED IN REVERENCE as Billie controlled the hassle and din around her. He wanted to be successful, like Billie... for Billie. Yet he knew only too well how much he had to learn about people and life. He also reminded himself how lucky he felt having Billie close by to learn from. He turned to Mitsuko, who was also studying Billie’s performance. Learning forward and offering a smile he quietly said. Follow the science.

Mitsuko give him a gorgeous smile, which wasn’t lost on Marge. What are you two whispering about?

Mitsuko was quickest to form words. Billie. She represents every ambitious boy and girl’s dream. I so much want to grow just like Billie.

Marge nodded. I agree. She’s this old girls dream too. Don’t think it’s possible to like her more, but I live in the hope of growing more like her. Marge stopped speaking a moment. We shouldn’t hold you up. I know you have a long way to go and need to be there before sunset. Which begs the question where is Peta? Marge looked from Jamie to Mitsuko. It was Billie’s idea to come here. Apparently you both expressed reservation about passenger concerns during the trip. If you wish both those passengers can come home with us tonight. Billie thought you might like to leave one plane here and fly together. That way you could fly direct to Pituri Downs tomorrow morning or one of us could fly Kimi to Mount Isa and meet you there. Alternatively, if Kimi worries us as well, we’ll take her all the way to Barkley Station. Either way we’ll meet up give you Kimi and collect Jamie and we’ll all be safely home. Marge rolled her eyes. All these aeroplanes we now have. It’s hard to get my mind around it.

Mitsuko again answered, I think that sounds great, if Kimi proves difficult and you or Billie don’t mind. Could I suggest you phone my Dad and ask if he would fly our plane to your place and pick Kimi up. She frowned. That way Dad will be sure to have a well overdue air safety chat with Kimi.

Marge expanded her eyes and blew out a breath. Could be a good idea. If need be I’ll negotiate with your mother. She can talk to your father. I assure you, Peta’s talk is already listed in my diary. I’ve even wondered if it might be wise to ban them from being together at school. She quickly lowered her head a moment. Forget I said that. I’ll have that talk with your mother. She paused again. Now If I walk down there alone. She pointed at the shops. I take it I can spring Peta and Kimi in the food court. The walk will do me good and I’ll use my own eyes to discover what they’re doing. Marge looked at Jamie. Should I steal my kiss now or will you be here when I return with two inexperienced young ladies in tow?

Jamie looked a Mitsuko then his mother. We’ll most likely still be here. We need to alter the flight plans in the office and move the luggage about. We still have half an hour of daylight in reserve. Plus I need to hug you and Billie before we set off.

FIONA? WHAT A SURPRISE. Didn’t factor you as a potential aeroplane purchase.

Fiona Goodchild gave Billie a warm smile and received a simulated kiss on both cheeks before saying. Aeroplane junky no; viewer of goings on always. Billie you’re a natural drawcard. We were walking, talking and aeroplane spotting for the want of something better to do. Than when I saw you... you know me. I can’t resist a girl in or out of uniform. Fiona seemed to check herself. Billie I’d like you to meet Beverly. Fiona turned her attention to the girl beside her. Beverly this is Ms Hope. Though she prefers to be called Billie. Fiona smiled amusingly and pointed toward the hanger door. Beverly you might put heaps of effort into making friends with Billie. She’s lovely. It’s also Billie’s name on the door. Then turning back toward Billie and continued. Beverly and I are spending the holidays together. I’m the chaperone.

Billie’s face clouded tearfully. She squatted to align her eyes, matching Beverly’s height and put out her hand to shake. Hi Beverly. If you’d like you could spend the holidays with us. Billie shrugged. We live in the middle of nowhere and don’t have much excitement going on but we eat three meals each day. Billie delayed a moment and shrugged again. Perhaps you’d like to visit for a day or two and see what you think. If you don’t like it there I’ll fly you back here straight away. And if you do like things in the middle of nowhere I’ll have you flown back in time to start next term.

Beverly seemed teary as well. She looked at Ms Goodchild then Billie to say. I have to stay with Ms Goodchild.

Billie smiled. We could bring Ms Goodchild. She won’t eat much. Plus we’ll take photos of her falling off a horse. You can show the other kids at school next term. Billie’s smile refected the girl’s face. Besides we’re not total strangers. Jamie, Billie pointed. Is my little brother?

Beverly turned to face Ms Goodchild. Could we go with Billie please Ms Goodchild?

Fiona tilted her head and made an eye movement to make full contact with Billie.