“Nothing ever happens in Salem ,” Beak muttered. “I mean, geez, what a dull little town this is.”
“City of Peace ,” I answered. “That pretty well says it all.”
“It's a great town and you know it,” Matthew said, “even if it is a little boring.”
Beak shrugged.
“Vampires,” I whispered. “The scariest monster ever invented.”
“Yeh, right,” Matthew answered. “You just like the idea of nibbling on a girl's neck.”
I smiled. “There is that.”
“Yuucckk!” Beak said. “Sucking on girls.” He shuddered visibly.
“The mummy,” Matthew said. “If you understand the mummy then you know that you really don't have a chance against that guy.” Beak dragged a leg in mock respect as we moved slowly towards the old Junior High.
I had to smile; best friends in spite of their differences Matthew and Beak were a remarkable pair. Beak, with his curly black hair, elongated nose and wild laugh was occasionally obnoxious but always crazy. Matthew, on the other hand was the inquisitive type. Most often he could be found reading a book or tuned in to educational television. He was, pretty much, a walking talking encyclopedia.
“Nice shirt, Beak,” I said.
He glanced at me in surprise.
“Yes, nice orange shirt,” Matthew echoed. “Very festive – in honor of tonight's Harvest Hop?” He chuckled.
“At least I've got some school spirit, wise-apple,” Beak muttered. “You two losers didn't even try.” I grinned at Matthew and he winked back.
“You're cool Beak,” I said. “I mean really we respect you.”
The chatter of kids sounded in the night as the old Junior High loomed up before us. Several girls giggled and talked near the entrance as we sauntered past and went inside. We stopped, squinted and tried to gain our bearings as the brightness of the lights overcame us and the loudness of the party momentarily confused us. |
