It was getting closer to 3PM, when school let out. By this point, Jenny was setting up for her afternoon at the library.
Gloria was looking for Beth to help wrangle Ricky. Beth was chatting with Francis, the newest cheerleader. Francis had only recently moved into town, and had apparently been a cheerleader at his old school.
"I already have cheerleading practice. You want me to take on another activity?"
"I mean, how can you not?" Beth said.
Gloria approached. "What's going on?"
"Nothing," Beth said. "I thought maybe Francis could tag along. I mean, being new in town and all."
"Tag along where?" Francis said.
"A friend of ours needs some help getting ready for tonight, then we're going to go hear a band play later on."
"I'd love to, but...my mom will want me to take Courtney along."
"Who is Courtney?"
"She's kind of a dork, I know...but family. She's been having a hard time making friends here."
"How old?"
"Freshman," Francis said.
"Well..." Gloria said, thoughtfully. "Maybe we can help out a bit."
Beth grinned. Gloria was such a puckish figure. Playing with love, bringing couples together.
Francis looked at the two of them. They meant well, but their smiles...he wasn't exactly comfortable letting them meddle.
