Page 104 of Don't Tell Teacher

The woman is Margaret.

And the man is Olly.

I unclip my seatbelt, rushing to the window by Tom’s stretcher.

Leaning over Tom, I sway dangerously, face pressed to the glass as the ambulance swings around a corner.

‘Madam!’ the paramedic shouts. ‘Sit down,now.’

I pull back from the window, eyes still riveted to the glass, but now the ambulance has turned I see only buildings and road.

Oh God, oh God, oh God.

Olly looked ill. Gaunt. Still with that handsome bone-structure and tall body, but a shadow of his former self. It’s been so long since I’ve seen him …

I think I’m going to be sick.

Margaret brought Olly here.

Emotions whirl around, and it’s hard to know what is most overwhelming.

Panic, confusion, fear.

Betrayal.

She brought him here. I thought she was on our side.

‘What were you playing at?’ says the paramedic. ‘You could have fallen.’

I feel tears coming.

‘It’s all right.’ The paramedic looks embarrassed now. ‘I didn’t mean to upset you, love. I just didn’t want anyone getting hurt.’

‘It’s not you,’ I explain. ‘I just saw Tom’s father. There’s a restraining order against him.’

‘Oh lord,’ says the paramedic. ‘That’s a situation. Should I phone the police?’

I shake my head. ‘We’re going now. He didn’t see us.’

‘You’re safe with us,’ says the paramedic, voice warm and reassuring.

‘I hope so,’ I say.

‘Tom should be back at school in a few days,’ the paramedic continues, giving us a cheery smile. ‘That’s what the nurse was saying. Give you a bit of time to yourself, Mum.’

I look out the window, thinking:That’s the last thing I need.

I want Tom at home with me. Tucked up on the sofa where I can see him. As far away from that school as possible.

Kate

11.34 p.m.

Col is still awake when I get home. I’m so tired, I trip on the front door mat.

‘Hi, love,’ I call out, hanging my coat in the hallway.

There’s a pause. Then Col appears from the office room wearing his black glasses, a T-shirt and some tartan pyjama bottoms.

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