The bus was most of the way to school when Daniel noticed the missed call and voicemail. He listened to Penelope’s message. When the bus let the students off at high school, Daniel hung back and then bolted through some trees and caught one of the side streets that ran behind the school. His brother’s place was only about a ten-minute walk. He could skip first period. Maybe even second if he had to. He texted Penelope to let her know he’d be there soon. Penelope texted Daniel back that she couldn’t wait to see him, with a heart emoji.
Brad’s house was on a quiet cul-de-sac, lined with small, boxy homes. Daniel huffed and puffed as he walked up the front drive. He rang the doorbell and waited only about five seconds before the door swung open. Penelope stood in a tight tank top and yoga pants. Her curves bulged under her clothes. Daniel tried to keep his eyes up on her pretty, blue eyes.
“Hello, Daniel. You skipping school?” Penelope stuck her head out and looked around the neighborhood. Satisfied that no one watched them, she waved Daniel inside and closed the door behind them.