The Conservatory

8/7/2019 The Conservatory

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The room was a lot smaller than she had imagined. Two men and one woman sat in

front of the piano at a desk. They all had binders resting on their laps, open to

empty lined pieces of paper. She felt fear and anxiety grab her around the throat

and squeeze.

Hi, she says nervously. Her voice quavers, and the little voice in her head tells herto stop being such a baby.

Hi, come on in, said the shorter of the two men. He looked through a file lying

open on the table, holding his horn-rimmed glasses slightly away from his nose to

see better. Violet Parker?

Yeah, thats me. Violet fiddled with her hands as she approached the piano. She

noticed they were clammy, so she wiped them on her skirt.

The man with the horn-rimmed glasses looked up at her. Perfect, he said, flashing

a smile that would make even an orthodontists jaw drop. Do you have a resume?

Oh, yeah, its right here, said Violet, digging through her messenger bag. She

pulled out a brown file and handed it to the other man, who already had his arm out

to take it. He smiled at her as he passed the resume to the woman sitting next to

him.

Violet smiled back politely and stood there as the woman read her resume. There

was an awkward moment of silence.

The woman looked up, staring expectantly at Violet with big brown eyes. Her

eyebrows moved slowly up her forehead. Are you going to sing?

Violet started. Oh! Now?

Please, the woman said coolly.

Right. Violet walked over to the piano and hit her starting note. She hummed it,

feeling the vibration of the note loosen the grip on her throat. She inhaled.

Ive heard there was a secret chord

That David plays and it pleased the Lord

But you dont really care for music do youViolet felt like her mouth was frozen shut. She glanced over and saw that the

woman was staring at her, and that the two men gazed at the floor. She had to do

something if she was going to get this spot. She opened her mouth wider and took a

deep breath in.


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Violet swallowed. I think they want us to wait out here.

Oh, okay. He looked at her. And Im fine, really. He glanced down. Actually, I

was at the door trying to listen to you. You sounded great, by the way. He looked

up at her again and gave her a small smile.

Really? Violet said, her eyebrows raised. They didnt seem to think so.

Theyre crazy, then, he said. Violet felt her cheeks warmed and willed her face not

to blush, which made her blush even more.

He didnt seem to notice. Nice song choice, too.

What are you singing? she asked.

The door opened behind them and the man with the horn-rimmed glasses stepped

out.

Thomas Gray?

Thomas nodded and lifted his hand slightly. Thats me. He started to walk into the

room, but as he turned to close the door he smiled coyly at Violet.

Thomas smiled coyly. I guess youre going to have to listen at the door to find out.

And with that, he closed the door.

Violet smiled to herself as she watched Thomas disappear behind the door. She

turned around to walk away, but then stopped herself. She looked around. There

was no one else in the hallway, so she timidly approached the door.

She leaned against it, but heard nothing. With another quick glance around, she

pressed her ear against the door and listened. She heard some mumbling and some

laughter. She frowned the people running the auditions sounded much more

animated than they had been with her.

There was a moment of silence.

Suddenly a few bouncy chords sprung from the piano.

Im not surprised

Not everything lasts.

Ive broken my heart so many times,

I stopped keepin track.


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I talk myself in,

I talk myself out,

I get all worked up

Then I let myself down.

Violets eyes grew wide and her jaw dropped. Hes so good!

I tried so very hard not to lose it.

I came up with a million excuses.

I thought I thought of every possibility.

Violet could tell Thomas was putting everything he had into this song. She grimaced

as she wished that she had done the same.

And I know someday thatll all turn out,

And youll make me work so we can work to work it out.

And I promise you, kid, that I give so much more than I get.

I just havent met you yet.

I just havent met you yet

Thomas drew out the last bar as the song came to a close. Violet paused for a

moment, stunned by how good his performance was. I dont stand a chance

She started when she heard a knock at the door. Confused, she raised one eyebrow

and opened the door slowly. She saw Thomass face break into a big smile.

I thought I should warn you before I open the door, he said.

Violet opened the door all the way and Thomas walked out of the room. She shut

the door and turned to face him.

You were really fantastic! she said in amazement. I didnt know you had to be

that good to get in to this school--

Who said I got in? Thomas said with a playful grin. And you were that good too,

you know. In fact, I think I may have a little competition.

Violet rolled her eyes. Yeah, right. Youre a shoe-in. You sang it and played it on the

piano. Me, on the other hand I barely opened my mouth when I was in there. And I

sang it a cappella.


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He raised his eyebrows. I think you need to give yourself some credit. Theyre not

looking for perfection. Theyre looking for someone they can teach. He gave her

another winning smile.

TOMMY!

Violet and Thomas both jumped at the shrill shriek l that sounded behind them.

They both turned around to see a tiny blonde girl clapping her hands excitedly.

I didnt know you were auditioning! she squealed in an unnaturally high voice as

she pranced yes, pranced over to Thomas and gave him a big hug around his

middle.

Yeah, well, my dad finally realized that I hated hockey, so he let me audition,

Thomas said, leaning over to hug the girl briefly before they broke apart. But I

figured youd be auditioning.

Yeah, well, you know, she said, resting a fingertip on his chest. Her eyes flashedmomentarily to Violet and then back to Thomas.

But this didnt go unnoticed. Becca, this is actually, I dont think I got your

name, he laughed.

Violet glanced quickly at Beccas face. Her eyes were only slightly narrowed, but

Violet could tell that Becca was already assessing her.

Violet. Violet Parker.

Becca gave her a tight smile. Are you auditioning too, then?

Violet hesitated before her reply. She felt like everything she said was being judged,

like every statement she made to this girl would be compartmentalized in her brain

and used against her later.

Yeah. It was sort of on a whim, I guess.

She was really fantastic, Becca. You should have heard her, Thomas chimed in.

Becca smiled at Thomas and then turned back to face Violet. Her smile remained on

her face, but unlike when she smiled at Thomas, her smile wasnt as warm.

I wish I could have. It would have been interesting to hear, she commentedcoolly.

Violet caught the slight pause before the word interesting and inferred her

meaning. Maybe I did make a mistake coming here

Rebecca Morris? called a voice.


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They all turned to see the man with the horn-rimmed glasses reappear in the

doorway of the audition room.

Oh! Thats me! Becca said brightly, raising her hand. She turned and grabbed

Thomass hand and looked at him. Want to grab a coffee after Im done? Its really

been too long, Tommy.

Thomas smiled. Sure, why not? Ill wait.

Becca squeezed his hand before she let go. She turned to Violet. It was nice

meeting you, she said, pursing her lips in a half-smile. And with that, she skipped

over to the doorway and disappeared into the audition room, humming to herself.

Violet watched her as she left. Then she back to face Thomas. Well, I should

probably be going. It was nice meeting you, Tommy.

Thomas winced. Actually, its just Thomas. I Becca just likes to call me that.

Violet tried to refrain from laughing, but a smirk crossed her face. Okay, well, bye

then, Thomas.

See you on your first day here, he said with a grin.

Violet opened her mouth to once again voice that she didnt think she was going to

get in, but he raised a hand to shop her. You just watch. I know youre going to get

in.

Violet gave him a playful glare before sighing and nodding curtly. Sure. Well see.

She smiled again. Bye.

She turned away from Thomas and walked down the hallway. She smiled all the way

to her car in the parking lot. As she turned the ignition on, the radio blared loudly,

since shed forgotten to turn the volume down before shed turned off the car.

And I know that we can be so amazing,

And being in your life is gonna change me.

And now I can see every single possibility

Violet looked at the radio, stunned. Then she laughed as she changed the gear to

drive. She sucked in a big breath and belted out the words, singing the way sheshould have sung in her audition.

And I know someday thatll all turn out,

And youll make me work so we can work to work it out.

And I promise you, kid, that I give so much more than I get.


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I just havent met you yet!

She sounds like a little nightmare, said the girl with the mop top of curly, frizzy

red hair. I still dont get why you want to go there. You know that school is just

going to be filled with little divas and divos like her, right?

It wont be that bad, Cindy, Violet said to her longtime friend sitting across from

her. She took a sip of her strawberry-banana smoothie, her usual at Bells and

Whistles, their favourite hangout caf. As she looked across the table at her lanky

best friend, she thought about all the laughs and tears they had shared in this tiny,

grungy caf. She was pretty sure they were the only two regular customers that

ever came to the B&W. Theyd come to the caf so often that the owner just let

them fix their own orders themselves behind the counter while he sat in the back

and watched wrestling. The two friends were never concerned that their private

conversations were overheard, as the owner listened to the wrestling matches so

loudly, even they were able to keep up with who was winning and who was knocked

out.

Cindy rolled down the sleeves of her blouse (or rather, her brothers shirt that she

stole) and gripped her vanilla latte with both hands. The caf was always freezing.

Violet looked at her friend, clearly amused.

And did you seriously just use the word divo? she laughed.

Cindy shrugged. Well, thats what all the guys will be like! Divos. Total ego-

maniacs.

Im sure they wont be, Violet said, shaking her head. She paused for a moment

and bit her lip, wondering if she should divulge her secret to her friend. I mean,

that one guy I was talking to definitely wasnt a divo

Cindy shot her friend a look of disbelief, rolled her eyes and then dropped her head

on the table. She was always one for the dramatics.

What? Violet said, poking her friend in the head.

Cindy lifted her head and shot her friend a glare. I hate you, Vi.

Violet laughed. What? What have I done now?

Cindy rolled her eyes. Oh, nothing. Nothing. I just hate you with every fiber of my

being for no reason at all.

Violet raised one eyebrow. Please. Enlighten me.


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Honestly, its a wonder youre not deaf. Ive been calling you for ages. I can hear

your music from down here. Whats the point of headphones if I can still hear your

music?

Violet put on her best poker face. Inside, she was seething. But on the outside, she

knew she had to look calm and just try to get through the lecture she knew she wasgoing to receive.

Sorry, mum.

Hows your room coming along? her mother asked sarcastically. From all the

stomping around I can hear from downstairs you must be getting a lot done.

Its getting there, Violet replied. She was lying shed been dancing around

while listening to her music and had gotten very little cleaning done.

Her mother sighed angrily. You know, if you just tidied up a few minutes every day

it wouldnt take you an hour to clean you room! And could you stop stampingaround? Youre driving me up the wall.

Sorry, mum.

Her mother rolled her eyes. Dont be sorry. Just get it done. And with that, she

walked away. Violet could hear her mother walk into the kitchen and open the

dishwasher. She heard the loud clanging of dishes.

Violet walked back into her room and closed the door. Tears welled up in her eyes

and she blinked them away. She hated when her mom did things like that.

She put her earbuds back in and hit the play button. Music blasted from the earbudsso loudly that the sound began to crackle. She spun her finger around the track on

her iPod and the music grew quiet. She picked up her favourite pair of jeans and

folded them.

Violet heard a knock on the door. Her heart jumped a bit as she looked around her

room. There were piles of clothes in each corner of the room. Her desk was covered

in papers. Her bed wasnt made. She breathed in nervously, and then scrunched up

her nose. Why did her room always smell so bad?

Just a second! Violet called. She grabbed each pile of clothes one by one and

stuffed them in her closet. Her closet was overflowing before she put the last pile in,so she kicked that pile under her bed. She quickly straightened the pile of papers on

her desk. Nothing could be done about her bed in time, so Violet sighed and opened

the door just wide enough to see her mother stood there with the phone in her

hands.

Its someone from that school, her mom said, as she handed Violet the phone.


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Violet stared at the phone blankly for a moment. She took a deep breath and

nodded. She took the phone from her mom and held it to her ear.

Hello?

Hi, Violet Parker? This is Vince Stewart from Hudson Conservatory Secondary

School. How are you doing?

Violet felt her stomach flip. She recognized the voice it was the man from her

audition with the horn-rimmed glassed. Well, thank you.

Good. Well, I was just calling to talk to you about your audition. I have to say, we

were skeptical at first. You seemed very unsure of yourself.

He paused here, as if expecting a response. Violet just let out a small laugh in reply.

She felt frozen.

But then it looked like you started to feel more comfortable, and you soundedgreat! You have a lot of natural talent, Violet. But you could use a little technical and

theoretical study to hone that talent. So, with that said, Id like to offer you

acceptance to the conservatory.

Violet let out a rush of air and smiled. Really? Thank you! Thank you so much! She

looked at her mother, who smiled and gave her a thumbs-up.

Congratulations! Youll be receiving a package in the mail sometime in the next few

days. Just fill out some of the forms and come by the school to meet with a

counselor wholl set you up for September.

Okay. Thank you very much.

Youre very welcome. Were looking forward to seeing you on the first day. Take

care.

Thank you. Bye.

Violet took the phone away from her ear and pushed the end button. She let out a

small squeal of delight and looked at her mom. I got in!

Im so proud of you, honey! her mom said with a smile. Her mom gave her a hug.

Over Violets shoulder, her mother got a glimpse of her daughters bedroom. Shesaw a sleeve sticking out from under her closet door, and saw that her bed was still

not made. She got a whiff of the room and broke away from the hug.

Violet, what have you been doing up here? Youve gotten nothing done!

Violets smile faltered a bit. Sorry, mom. Ill get on it now.


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Her mom took another look around her daughters room and frowned. She shook

her head slightly and walked down the hall.

Violet closed the door to her bedroom and leaned up against it. Her faded smile

stretched across her face again, and she let out a sigh of relief. Nothing could kill

her buzz now she was going to the conservatory.

Thomas felt the hairs on his arms stand on end as he entered the chilly arena. He

clutched his arms close to him and walked through the stands towards the bench

where his father stood.

Arthur Gray held his whistle in his mouth, ready to blow into it. His eyes moved back

and forth as he followed his players skating back and forth on the ice.

One of the players slipped as he sprint-skated through center ice. He almost fell

over but regained his composure and tried to continue skating. But when he pushedwith the foot he had slipped on, he almost fell over again. From the bench, Arthur

could hear him let out a groan of pain. He huffed into the whistle sharply and took

the whistle out of his mouth.

Ferris! Get your ass in gear! Stop being such a pansy!

Shawn Ferris struggled to propel himself forward with his injured foot, but he

stumbled and winced again. The rest of his team sped past him as he started to

push only with his good foot, going at half the speed he had been going before.

Arthur raised his arms angrily, as if he were asking a question. What are you doing,Ferris? Get moving! For Christs sake!

By this point, Thomas had reached his father and scowled at him.

Dad, would you calm down? Hes hurt. Relax.

Arthur turned to face his son and saw that Thomas green eyes were slits. It

frightened him sometimes to see the contempt his son had for him. He remembered

a time when those green eyes looked up at him in admiration. Now he didnt see

anything like that at all. But Arthur shook it off.

If that happened in a game, hed have to keep playing, he retorted.

No. You would bench him, Thomas replied. Why are you training them anyways?

Its summer.

Weve got to be ready for the new season, Arthur stated, as if it were obvious.


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Thomas looked away from his father. He watched his former teammates skating up

and down the rink. There was no longing to join them he had never liked the game

with the same ferocity as his father.

I got in, Thomas said simply, still not turning to look at his father. Arthur had

never been good at concealing his initial reaction on his face, and Thomas didntwant to see what his father thought about his news.

He was right. Arthurs face fell slightly as his son delivered the news. His dream of

sharing hockey with his son was over. Acceptance to the conservatory meant that

his son would be too busy singing in choir Arthur almost cringed at the thought

to play on his team.

Thomas peeked at his father out of the corner of his eyes. Arthur saw this glance

and nodded curtly, but said nothing. Thomas stuck his tongue in his cheek.

Yeah. So, Ive got to swing by the school this afternoon to hand in some forms and

stuff. Can you give me a ride? Thomas asked.

Sure. After practice, though. His father turned his attention back to the ice, where

his players were all skating slowly, dragging their feet in fatigue.

Pick up the pace, guys! Four more laps!

As Thomas turned and started to walk away, he ran a hand through his dark, wavy

hair. Yeah, he thought, I really dont miss this.

Violet knocked on the open door and took a peek into the small yet quaint officetucked away in the main office of the Hudson Conservatory Secondary School. The

room was filled with colourful motivational posters with slogans that said things like

Shoot for the moon. Even if you fall short, youll land among the stars! Violet

stifled a laugh.

A thin, older woman with blonde hair turning gray at the tips turned around in her

swivel chair to face Violet. The smiled and peered at her visitor over the edge of her

large glasses which magnified her eyes to almost twice their size.

Well, hello there! the woman said, her voice thick with a southern accent. Come

on in, honey. Have a seat.

Violet tentatively entered the guidance counselors office and sat down in a cushy

chair in the corner of the small room. She felt herself sink into it and wondered how

she was going to back get up delicately in her short jean skirt at the end of the

meeting.

Hi, Violet said with a smile.


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So you must be Violet Parker. Well, welcome to Hudson Conservatory! You must be

very excited, the woman said warmly. Im Mrs. Wendall, and Im the guidance

counselor for students with last names in the second half of the alphabet. So if you

have any questions or problems when youre here, you just come pay me a visit,

okay?

Okay, Violet said, put at ease by the apparent friendliness of her new guidance

counselor. She relaxed and sank down into the comfy chair.

Weve got your transcripts from your old school, and I dare say you have nothing to

worry about there, Mrs. Wendall said with a kind smile. All we need for you to do is

to sign these forms, she said, passing Violet a few papers and a pen, and thats it!

Youll officially be a student here!

Violets hand shook slightly as she neatly signed her name beside the Xs marked

on the forms. After she finished, she passed the forms back to Mrs. Wendall, who

took them with another one of her warm smiles.

Youre all set! Now, there are a few things you need to know related to your majors.

Youve selected to take drama as one of your two majors, is that right?

Violet nodded.

Perfect. Well, as auditions dont take place until after first semester for the drama

course, youll be taking the open drama course with everyone else. Your drama

teacher, Ms. Ferris, just said to bring, and I quote, your smile and your enthusiasm.

Violet saw Mrs. Wendalls eyebrows raise slightly at this, but she continued.

However, Mrs. Griffith, your vocal teacher, has asked that everyone prepare a solo

for the first day of class for diagnostic purposes. So make sure you have somethingready.

Violet felt her body stiffen and her breath stopped short. I have to sing a solo? On

the first day?

Mrs. Wendall seemed to sense Violets concerns and reached over to pat her hand.

Im sure you have nothing to worry about, my dear. Its not for marks at all. Its just

so she can see where everyone is at with their training.

Violets eyes widened. Training? What training? Oh my God.

Mrs. Wendell gave her hand another pat and then stood up. She reached out a hand

to help Violet out of the chair, and Violet smiled slightly. Her guidance counselor

could read her like an open book.

It was very nice to meet you, Violet. And dont fret, dear. Im sure youll have a

wonderful time here.

Violet nodded and offered a small smile. I really hope youre right.


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Violet looked down at the page she held out in front of her as she stopped in the

middle of the hallways. Bodies rushed past her, heading to their various classrooms.

She looked down at the number on the top left hand corner of the page. 1226. She

looked up at the lockers that lined the left hand side of the hallway. 1189, 1190

She felt a force hit her from behind. Her paper flew out of her hands and she

instinctively put her hands out to stop herself from crashing into the floor.

Not a good place to stop, noob! someone shouted from down the hallway. She

looked up and saw a tall brunette laughing with a group of friends. Among them was

Becca, who flashed Violet an unconvincing smile before turning the corner and

disappearing down another hallway. Violet felt her cheeks burn and she brushed her

hair out of her face.

Are you alright? said a deep, rich voice from behind her. Violet spun around and

looked up at the boy who held out her paper for her. She took the paper slowly andfelt her face burn even brighter.

Those girls they can be kind of nasty. Id stay out of their way for a bit if I were

you, he said with a kind smile.

Thanks, Violet said meekly.

I couldnt help but notice that your locker is next to mine. Want me to show you

where it is? he asked.

Violet sighed in relief. Yeah, thanks. I thought Id never find it.The boy let out a chuckle and gently put a hand on her shoulder. Its this way.

They walked down the hallway together and turned to the right. Violet walked about

half a step behind the boy for two reasons. The first was because she had no idea

where they were going and was more than happy to let him lead the way. The

second was to get a better look at him without him noticing.

He was pretty tall with light brown hair that was short and well-kept. His white t-

shirt and Levis jeans were well-fitted and stylish. Everything about his look was

classic, except for his shoes. His Converse were scuffed up and dirty, and the ends

of the laces were frayed.

He moved over to the side of the hallway and stopped in front of a bank of lockers.

He leaned up against a locker that already had a blue combination lock on it and

nodded towards the unoccupied locker next to it.

Welcome home, he said.


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Thanks, Violet said, opening her locker door. She put her messenger bag down on

the ground and knelt down to dig through it for her lock.

How do you know your way around so well? she asked, digging through the

various pockets of her bag.

The boy shrugged. Im a senior, he said nonchalantly.

Violet glanced up at him. Oh!

The boy smiled playfully. What? Did you think all seniors are big bad wolves out to

make a fool of the new kids?

Violet blinked. N-no. Not really. The boy raised his eyebrows. Okay, she

conceded. Maybe I did. But thats what the seniors were like at my old school.

The boy chuckled. I promise I wont be like that. But I cant guarantee anything

when it comes to Lauren and her friends. When Violet gave him a questioning lookhe dryly added, Thats the girl you had the pleasure of meeting earlier.

Violet felt the lock in her bag, grabbed it, and stood up. Oh. That brunette who was

walking with Becca?

Whos Becca?

Shes a junior too, Violet answered as she put her lock on her locker and snapped

it shut. I met her when I auditioned.

The boy rolled his eyes. Thats so like Lauren, to cultivate a mini-me the first

chance she gets. He smiled again. Are you all set?

Set for what? Violet asked tentatively.

He laughed and put his hand on her shoulder again, gently leading her back in the

direction from which they came. Did you think I was going to let you wander

around aimlessly again trying to find your first class? He pointed to her paper.

Vocals with Griffith. Its in the basement.

He had a way of making Violet feel completely welcome and comfortable but at the

same time feel awkward and inferior. He exuded an easy-going attitude. She

wondered if he acted this friendly with everyone.They proceeded to make small talk as they headed downstairs. She discovered that

the boys name was Henry Wells and that he was a vocal and dance major. While

they were walking Henry would occasionally touch her arm lightly and draw her

attention to something in the school, acting like a tour guide.

And that bench is where are the anime club kids eat lunch, he said, gesturing to a

blue bench in the foyer. He pointed over to a window in a wall. Behind it was a room


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filled with music and band posters and a bunch of microphones. Thats the radio

room, where our DJs play live requests at lunch.

They walked down the staircase and down to the end of the hallway. The last room

on the left was already filled with students chatting to each other. Violet looked into

the room nervously, and then turned back to Henry. As she did, a loud bell sounded.

Shoot! I made you late for class! she said, worried that shed just given her new

friend a reason to hate her already.

But Henry just shrugged. Actually, I have first period spare. So Im not late for

anything.

Violet looked at him incredulously. Why would you come to school early then? On

the first day, too!

Henry smiled and his amber eyes glinted. Because you never know who you might

meet.

Violet smiled and felt herself blush again. Then she saw Henry look over her

shoulder. You better get in there, he said, looking into the classroom. Violet turned

around and saw the students inside taking their seats. She turned around to face

Henry again.

Thanks again for helping me out.

He nodded. Sure. See you around. Henry gave her another smile and turned,

putting his hands in his pockets as he walked down the hallway.

Violet watched after him for a moment, and then remembered she was late forclass. She quickly spun around and rushed into the classroom.

The seats were arranged in a semi circle. At the front of the room, to the side, was

an older-looking wooden piano. In the center of the wall at the front of the room was

a blackboard. An unusually small woman stood with her back to the students,

writing her name on the board. Mrs. Grif-

Violet turned and looked for an empty seat. She saw Thomas seated at the end of

the back row, who smiled at her and gave a little wave. She waved back and started

to move in his direction, but stopped when she realized that the only seat next to

him was occupied by Becca, who gave Violet a curt smile.

Violet looked around for an empty seat. The only one she saw was front row center.

On one side of the seat was a girl with jet-black hair hunched over her deck. Her

hands were covered in black as she scribbled on a piece of paper furiously with

charcoal. On the other side was a boy with long, side-swept sandy blonde hair. His

face was tan and his blue eyes locked on hers. At first Violet detected a little


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sting as she struggled to keep up with what everyone else seemed to find so easy.

She felt relieved when Mrs. Griffith motioned for them all to sit at the end of the

warm-up, but knew that she still had to get up in front of everyone and sing. She felt

like she swallowed a rock her throat was dry and her stomach felt heavy.

Alright, then, Mrs. Griffith said. Who wants to go first?

Immediately the entire class dropped their eyes and avoided eye contact, fidgeting

in their seats or twiddling their thumbs. However, Isaac and Beccas hands shot up

immediately they glanced over at each other briefly, sizing up their competition.

Thank you, Mrs. Griffith said to the two of them. Her eyes moved back and forth

between the two, trying to decide who would perform first. Ladies first, I guess,

she said, her eyes landing on Becca.

Becca smiled and hopped out of her chair. She pranced up to the front of the room

and took a spot in the center of the semi-circle of chairs.

Give us a little introduction of yourself, Mrs. Griffith said.

Becca nodded enthusiastically. Okay. Hi, my name is Becca Morris, and Ive been

singing since before I could talk. Isaacs hand flew to his mouth to stifle a laugh.

Music is my passion, my life, and my art, Becca continued dramatically. I hope

you enjoy this number I threw together for you.

Becca gave her body a little shake as if to warm up. She buzzed her lips and started

humming different notes, trying to choose which key to begin in. She found one,

hummed it, and closed her eyes. Isaac turned to look at Violet and his eyes grew

wide. He pursed his lips together, trying to prevent laughter again.

Becca let out a sigh and opened her eyes. She plastered a big smile on her face and

took another, longer breath. As she let the breath out, she began to sing in an

unnaturally peppy and bright tone.

Hey, look out for that moving van driving down the street!

You better lock up your man before he meets

The new girl in town, who just came on the scene.

The new girl in town, cant be more than sixteen,

And shes got a way of making a boy act like a clown,

Whoa-oh, whoa-oh, whoa-oh, whoa!

We dont know what to do with the new girl in town.


19/42

Becca bounced slightly as she sang, the curls in her blonde hair springing up and

down with each bounce. Her gestures with her hands were choreographed and

looked somewhat like interpretive dance. Isaacs head was buried in his arms,

resting on his desk. Violet could see that his shoulders were shaking slightly, which

almost made her laugh too, but she bit her lip and turned back to face the front.

Shes hip so cool.

Im gonna get her after school.

And yet wed like to be like her,

because shes the kitten that the cats prefer.

There was no denying that Becca was talented. She was pitch-perfect and stylized

the song with well placed licks and ornaments. And her song selection suited her,

and her voice.

The new girl in town has my guy on a string.

The new girl in town hey, look! Shes wearing his ring!

I cant stop crying, and so in my own tears Im going to drown.

Whoa-oh, whoa-oh, whoa-oh, whoa!

Cause he wants to rendezvous with the new girl.

We kinda sad and blue yes its true, girl.

Wed like to say to the new girl in town.

The new girl in town.

As the song finished, Becca smiled and covered her mouth bashfully before turning

to Mrs. Griffith. Was that alright?

Yes, that was lovely, Mrs. Griffith said. A great start to our first solos. She turned

to face Isaac. I believe you wanted to go next.

Isaac nodded and stood up. That I did, maam, he said as he marched past Becca

on his way to the front of the room. Now that he was standing, Violet could see hisoutfit better, and her jaw almost dropped. She didnt care too much for fashion

herself, but she knew that if Cindy could see what Isaac was wearing, shed

probably pass out. Violet learned everything she knew about fashion by default.

Cindys room was plastered in fashion editorials and posters. Every time she was

done with her Italian Vogue (which she subscribed to every year) shed give the

magazine to Violet with colour-coded sticky notes as to which looks Cindy thought

she might like. Violet recognized the signature style of Isaacs Levis jeans, and


20/42


21/42

Mrs. Griffith turned to face Isaac with a sort of half-smile. That was good, Isaac. But

you really mustnt do that to your voice. But thats alright, because thats what

were here for, isnt it? I think a little training would serve you well.

The class grew very quiet. A smirk spread across Beccas face and she sat up a little

straighter. Isaac just blinked and then lowered his eyes. Other classmates startedlooking around at each other, confused by how Mrs. Griffith didnt approve of Isaacs

performance, which they had all loved.

Mrs. Griffith wasnt fazed. Right, then. Whos next? She looked around the room.

Students shrunk down in their seats and avoided eye contact. After watching Isaacs

seemingly good performance be torn to shreds, no one wanted to put their head on

the chopping block.

No one? she asked, looking around the classroom. Alright, then how about

you? she said, looking at Thomas.

Okay, he said, standing up and walking up to the front of the class. It seemed likethe students were collectively holding their breath, waiting for the next performance

to be up for scrutiny.

But Thomas seemed calm as he turned to face the class. My name is Thomas Gray,

and Im really happy to be here at the conservatory, he said. I needed a change,

something different. And Im looking forward to working on my music again. He

turned slightly to Mrs. Griffith. Would it be alright if I played the piano as well?

Mrs. Griffith pursed her lips slightly before she opened her mouth to speak. Id

rather you just sing. Id just like to hear your voice and assess where you are with

your singing. This isnt a talent show, she added with a forced smile.

The students gave each other wide-eyed looks and whispered comments. Violets

eyes were glued to Thomass face, expecting to see some sort of resentment or

panic or something cross his face. But nothing did. He just nodded.

Okay. He took in a few deep breaths with his eyes closed. Finally, he opened his

eyes, took a breath, and began to sing his song.

I am colourblind,

Coffee black and egg white.

Pull me out from inside;

I am ready, I am ready, I am ready.

Thomas voice was warm and full it filled the whole room. The room was still and

silent as everyones eyes were fixed on him.


22/42

I am taffy stuck and tongue-tied,

Stutter-shook and uptight.

Pull me out from inside.

I am ready, I am ready, I am ready.

I am fine.

The song drew to a close, and the class applauded politely. Everyones eyes were

fixed on Mrs. Griffith, waiting for her response.

She smiled at Thomas. You show great musicality, especially with your use of

crescendo and decrescendo. Nice work.

The class let out a collective sigh of relief and began to applaud again, this time

with a few cheers and whoops. Thomas smiled.

Through the applause, Mrs. Griffith turned to Violet, who was beaming at Thomas.

Would you like to go next, my dear?

Violets smile faltered and the colour drained from her face. She nodded and stood

up. She walked up to the front of the room where Thomas was still standing. Her

eyes landed on the scratch on his forehead the scratch she had given him only a

few weeks ago. He gave her an encouraging smile and took her by the shoulders.

Knock em dead, he said. Violet still looked terrified. Breathe, he added, and

suddenly Violet let out a rush of air. She had forgotten to breathe that whole time.

Thomas chuckled. Just start with your name. Easy, right? He gave her a pat on the

shoulder before he returned to his seat. Violet turned to face the class and felt her

eyes sting with tears. She froze. Her classmates stared at her, and then started to

look at each other questioningly when she did not do anything. Violet felt like

bolting out of the room. She looked at Thomas who smiled and nodded at her.

MynameisVioletParker, she spat out, her words crashing together. She let out a

shaky breath and continued. I I just really like music, I guess.

Great intro, dumbass, she thought to herself. Really compelling stuff.

She looked at Thomas again, who crossed his eyes and stuck out his tongue. Shesmiled, feeling a little more relaxed. But only a little.

Lets just get this over with, she thought. She took a breath and began to sing

before she could change her mind.

Three little birds sat on my window,


23/42

And they told me I dont need to worry.

Summer came like cinnamon, so sweet.

Little girls double-dutch on the concrete.

She was doing the same thing she did in her audition and she knew it. She couldntsing softly, quietly, hoping no one would hear her anymore. As she looked at

Thomas again, she remembered how she sang when she was alone in her car, and

she took the opportunity to sing like that again.

Maybe sometimes weve got it wrong, but its alright.

The more things seem to change, the more they stay the same.

Dont you hesitate

A smile spread across Violets face as she saw some people nodding their heads the

way they had done when Isaac sang. It fueled her performance as she felt the music

building up in her, ready to be released.

Girl, put your records on!

Tell me your favourite song.

You go ahead, let your hair down.

Sapphire and faded jeans,

I hope you get your dreams,

Just go ahead let your hair down.

Youre gonna find yourself somewhere, somehow.

As she wrapped up her song, applause sprung from her audience. She beamed as

she quickly walked back to her seat and sat down. Isaac turned to her and gave her

shoulder a squeeze.

Girl, that was amazing! he said, and Violet felt her cheeks warm. It didnt help

when she looked around and saw Thomas smiling face again. He made another silly

face that made her laugh, but also made her blush more.

Alright, settle down, Mrs. Griffith chided.

Violet tensed up, bracing herself for Mrs. Griffiths response to her performance.

Mrs. Griffith paused before speaking, eying up Violet and narrowing her eyes, as if

trying to think of what to say.


24/42

Not bad, Mrs. Griffith said quietly, and turned to a blonde boy sitting in the back

row. How about you next?

Violet sighed in relief. It was over. Shed survived her first solo.

After vocal class, Violet had math, which was the bane of her existence. She wasnt

bad at math in fact, it was one of her best subjects but she despised the

tediousness of the work and the fact that there was only one right answer for every

question (except the ambiguous case, but those questions just pissed her off).

There was little room for critical thinking or creativity in mathematics, and so Violet

had never really liked that class. Fortunately, Isaac was in that class with her, and

Isaac also hated math. They spent most of the class whispering about Youtube

videos and Harry Potter when they were supposed to be doing a review package.

They walked together to the cafeteria after math, hoping to beat the lineup at to

buy their lunch. But when they saw what was on the menu for that day, they knewthat there was no need to hurry to get a spot in line for food. No one would want to

eat the paper thin burgers or dry, crusty pasta that was being served. They both

looked at the lunch in disgust and left the small lineup in search of a vending

machine.

Five minutes later they were sitting down at a table tucked in the corner of the

cafeteria. In front of them was a small mountain of candy bars and bags of chips.

Isaac took a bag of chips and tore it open. It may not be healthy, but its a hell of a

lot better than the food they have here, he said before popping a salt and vinegar

chip in his mouth.

I dont know, said Violet, digging through the pile to find the box of Smarties she

knew theyd bought. That food looked like it might kill us. Can we even call that

food?

They both giggled.

How nutritious, said a playful voice from behind Violet. She turned her head and

saw Henry looking down at her. She smiled, and then realized her mouth was filled

with chocolate and immediately closed her mouth. She used her hand to cover her

mouth as she spoke. Hey!

Hey. How was your first class?

She shrugged. It was alright. We had to sing solos. I thought I was going to throw

up.

SHUT UP, she thought to herself. Dont talk to him about barfing! You idiot.


25/42


26/42

She almost choked on a Smartie and started coughing. When she caught her breath,

she glowered at Isaac. Im not going to ask him. Are you crazy? Hes a senior. She

tried to change the subject. Who are you going to ask?

Suddenly there was no smirk on Isaacs face. Violet could almost see him put on a

mask. Im not going to ask anybody. Its girls ask the guys, remember?

Well, maybe someone will ask you, Violet said, eating a few more Smarties.

Maybe Ill ask you, as friends, of course.

Id say no.

Ouch! Violet said, mock offended. Why?

First of all, youre way too smitten with that guy, Isaac said. He lowered his eyes.

And Id say no because I dont want to go with a girl. He sighed, blinked, then

looked up at Violet. Id love for some guy to ask me, but as its girls ask the guys, I

dont think theres any chance of that happening.

This didnt come as much of a surprise to Violet. She had a sneaking suspicion that

her new friend was gay. But she had never thought about how hard something like a

Sadie Hawkins dance could be, and she felt enormous sympathy for the boy who sat

across from her.

That really sucks, she said. Id never really thought about that.

Isaac looked back down at the table, and Violet felt a tug at her heart. She didnt

want her new friend to feel like this, especially on his first day at a new school.

Shed already grown attached to Isaac, even though theyd only just met.She grabbed a purple Smartie and threw it at Isaacs face. It his him just above his

eyebrow, and he jumped in surprise. He touched his hand to his forehead and

looked up at Violet. What was that for?

Violet smiled teasingly. For turning me down, you jerk!

That coaxed a smile out of Isaac, and he chuckled. Ill tell you what. If you dont

ask Henry to the dance and on Friday night you find yourself flying solo, Id be

happy to be your date.

Violet threw another Smartie at his face, which he picked up and threw right back ather. She lifted her hands to shield her face and laughed as the Smartie missed her.

Done deal.

At the last bell, Violet walked from her biology class to her locker. The weight of the

textbooks she was assigned on the first day of school tugged on her shoulder as


27/42


28/42


29/42

Sweet sixteen gift from my parents. Isaac answered the unasked question as he

adjusted the rearview mirror.

I wish, Violet breathed, buckling up.

Isaac put the key in the ignition and the car roared to life. He pushed a button and

suddenly music was pounding loudly all around them. Violet felt her chest vibrate

and pulse to the bass and her head pounded.

I LOVE THIS SONG! Isaac shouted over the music as he reached over and turned

the volume dial. The stereo crackled as the music grew even louder. Violet

instinctively covered her ears and laughed. Isaac rolled down the windows and they

felt the warm September breeze whip their hair around.

As they rolled out of the parking lot, Isaac sang loudly over the music. He sang

differently than he did in their music class he shouted the words, not caring in the

slightest what he sounded like.

From all the drugs the one I like more is music.

From all the junks the one I like more is music.

From all the boys the one I take home is music.

From all the ladies the one I kiss is music.

Isaac nudged Violet, trying to encourage her to sing along. She laughed as she

joined in, though not as loudly as Isaac.

Music is my boyfriend. Music is my girlfriend.

Music is my dead end. Musics my imaginary friend.

Music is my brother. Music is my great granddaughter.

Music is my sister. Music is my favourite mistress.

Violet giggled and stuck her hand out the window, feeling the air rush by it as they

sped down the road.

After ordering their drinks (two grande mocha lattes) they sat down in the burgundy

velvet armchairs by the window at the front of the Starbucks. Violet took a sip of her

drink and sighed.

Youre right, she said to Isaac. A mocha latte fixes everything.

I told you! Chocolate makes everything better.


30/42

J.K. was right, Violet conceded. With the chocolate thing. When Harry has to eat

chocolate after he passes out from the Dementors, she said, taking another sip of

her drink.

YOU READ HARRY POTTER?! a voice burst out from the counter where customers

wait for their drinks. Violet jumped in surprise and nearly spilled her drink down thefront of her shirt. She turned to look at the girl who asked her the question.

A small, thin girl with rich, dark skin and thick square glasses looked back at her

from over an Entertainment Weekly magazine with Darren Criss and Chris Colfer on

the cover. Her brown eyes were so dark they were almost black. Her straight, shiny

black hair hung just past her shoulders, and the front pieces of her hair were pinned

back with a small clip. She wore a vest over top of a gray shirt, skinny jeans, and

Converse. Around her neck hung a necklace with a teddy bear on it. Her face lit up

in recognition and surprise, and she had a big, goofy smile on her face that made

her eyes crinkly in the corners.

Violet realized she was staring at the outgoing girl and blinked to snap herself out of

it. She was still somewhat startled by the random outburst of this total stranger.

Um yeah. I do, Violet said slowly, nodding her head. She knew she didnt need

to ask if the girl read Harry Potter too that much was obvious.

Oh, cool! the girl said with her goofy smile.

The barista put a drink in front of the girl on the counter. One tall Tazo Chai, she

called out.

Thats me! the girl said brightly, raising her hand slightly. She grabbed the drinkand turned around. At first Violet thought she was going to come over to sit with her

and Isaac, but the girl didnt even look at her as she walked over to the door,

opened it, and walked out of the Starbucks.

Isaac burst into laughter as soon as the door had closed behind her. What the hell

was that?

I have no clue, Violet said, stunned. I guess she just really likes Harry Potter.

You think? Isaac said, still laughing. He tried to collect himself. I think I saw her at

school today.

She goes to our school?

Yeah, Im pretty sure. Actually, I think I saw her walking down the hall with your

new boyfriend, Isaac said with a smirk.

Violets heart sank a little bit, but she tried to seem composed. Hes not my

boyfriend, she said pointedly.


31/42

Uh huh, Isaac said, rolling his eyes before taking a drink.

Violet felt her phone buzz in her pocket. She took it out and saw that she had a

message from Cindy.

As if she knew by some sixth sense what Isaac had just said, Cindy had texted, Let

me guess. Youve found even more boys to flock around you? LOL How was your

first day, honey?

Violet smiled and texted back, I did! But he bats for the other team. And my first

day was comme ci comme a. How was yours?

Isaac stretched his neck to try to get a peek at her text. Who is that?

Violet put her phone back in her pocket. Its my best friend, Cindy. I think youd

really like her. I know shed love what youre wearing.

Isaac smiled. I like her already. The three of us should hang out this weekend. I wasthinking of having a small kick back at my house after the Sadie Hawkins dance. You

two should come.

Violet raised her eyebrows. A kick back?

Its bigger than a party and smaller than a get together. Honestly, Violet, Isaac

shook his head. First the mocha latte thing, and now this? You dont know anything,

do you?

Violet kicked his leg under the table. Shut up, she said. And that would be cool.

Ill ask her.

A kick back? How charming, said a snide voice. Isaac and Violet turned to see

Becca and Lauren standing next to their table looking down at them. But Lauren

here is having a big after party, so I doubt anyone would want to go to yours. No

offense, Becca said.

Violet put her tongue in her cheek and said nothing.

You could come to my party though, if you want. Im inviting a bunch of new juniors

to get them socialized, Lauren added. The way she said socialized made it

sound sinister and malicious, but she laughed it off. Everyones coming, so I guess

you guys could come too.

Violet looked at Isaac, silently willing him to say no. But he shrugged.

Sure. We might stop by, he said.

Cool. The event info is on facebook, Lauren said.

See you then, Becca added before the two girls walked away.


32/42

When they were out of earshot Violet kicked Isaac under the table again, but this

time she kicked him hard. He let out a small yelp.

What was that? she hissed. I dont want to go!

She made it sound like lots of people were going, Isaac explained. I dont want to

start off the year as being the lame nerd who didnt go to the popular girls party.

And besides, Isaac said, lowering his voice, I bet Henry will be there.

Violet narrowed her eyes but said nothing and sighed in defeat. Isaac smiled in

triumph, knowing he had won. He was going to help his new friend whether she

liked it or not.

As Becca climbed into Laurens SUV, she looked at her new friend in disbelief. Why

did you invite them? she asked incredulously.

But Lauren looked unfazed and smiled at her protg mischievously. I have two

reasons, she said as she turned the key in the ignition and the engine revved to

life. One, that Isaac kid has all the makings of a kid who could be one of us, she

said matter-of-factly. Hes obviously got money. Look at his ride and his clothes.

And you said he was talented. You said hes your only competition in your vocal

major class, she said, giving Becca a side-long look. Rich and talented thats

who we need to associate ourselves with.

Why? Becca said hesitantly, not wanting to seem stupid in front of the senior girl

who had taken her under her wing.

Lauren rolled her eyes and huffed. People come to the Hudson Conservatory for

one of two reasons, she explained, as if talking to a child. The first reason is

because they think theyll have a grand old time singing and dancing and that their

life will be like one big musical, she said, her voice was filled with disdain. And

then there are people like us. Ambitious. Talented. Determined. Were the ones who

are going to be on Broadway, or opening an exhibit of our work in the MoMA, or

dancing for Alvin Ailey, or accepting a Tony or an Oscar. Were the ones who are

going somewhere. And we need to associate ourselves with other people who are

going somewhere, and not people who are doing this for the hell of it. She glanced

at Becca. Get it now?

Becca nodded slowly, unsure of how she felt about what Lauren said. Got it.

Lauren nodded curtly. My second reason for inviting them to my party is because I

saw Henry talking to that girl today. And you said she was talking to Thomas when

you saw her at your audition. And we cant have that. She needs to be put in her

place. Which well do at the party. Thomas and Henry will both be there. And so will

we. And so will she, she said ominously.


33/42

What are you planning? Becca asked.

Nothing really. I just want her to see where she lies on the social ladder. Maybe

then shell realize that neither of the boys will ever see anything in her, she said

simply. And Thomas and Henry will see that too. And then theyre as good as ours.

They drove for a moment in silence, and Becca contemplated what her new mentor

had told her. She had known that joining the upper class social circle at the

conservatory would mean that manipulation and ambition would be a part of every

aspect of her high school life. But it was just the first day and already she felt like

she was floundering. But she tried not to let it show. She put down the sun visor and

looked in the mirror on the back of it, trying to look collected by casually fixing her

hair. So, she said nonchalantly, how should we ask Thomas and Henry to the

dance?

Lauren let out a sharp laugh, and Becca wondered what she said wrong. Honey,

youre cute, she said somewhat condescendingly. Were not going to ask them.

Becca blinked. Were not?

Lauren shook her head. Nope. Were going to ask two other boys. When Becca

raised her eyebrows Lauren added, Were going to make them sweat. See that

were desirable. They like us, Im sure they do. But they might not act on it. But

once the green monster Jealousy takes over them, theyll act on it. Lauren glanced

at Becca and saw that she was unconvinced. Trust me, she said.

Becca looked at Lauren for a moment and then turned her head to look out of the

window at the buildings and cars going by. Okay, she conceded. I trust you.

The rest of the week went by in a flurry of get-to-know-you activities, forms,

diagnostic tests, and other mind-numbing first week staples. Violet and Isaac spent

the week virtually attached at the hip, both happy to have someone to pass the

school day with. Everyday after school they went out for coffee in Isaacs car,

always blasting the radio with the windows rolled down. Violet was glad that she

had found a friend in Isaac. She missed Cindy a lot, but it was nice to have someone

else around in such a new environment.

Of course, she also had Henry to guide her. They talked to each other when theypassed each other in the hallways and at her locker. He had stopped walking her to

her first class, though, and although she no longer had trouble finding it, she wished

hed still walk with her.

.....................................................................................................................................

.


34/42

Thomas felt the dew of the grass wet the tips of his shoes as he walked across the

conservatorys field to get to the front doors of the school. The air was wet and

slightly cool, so he decided to pull up the hood of his sweater. As he did, he reached

up and touched the mark that still remained faintly on his forehead. He smiled a

little, remembering how he got it.

You look like Harry Potter, doing that, Thomas heard a voice say beside him. He

looked and saw a fashionably dressed boy he recognized from his vocal class.

Isaac, is it? he asked tentatively.

And youre Thomas, Isaac said with a smile. Nice job the other day with your solo.

It would have been nice to hear the piano with it too.

Yeah. Id practiced for so long too.

They reached the doors of the school and walked inside.

Isaacs eyes moved up to the light mark on Thomas head. Where did you get that

from?

Thomas touched the mark again. You know Violet? In our vocal class? Well... oh

man, this is kind of embarrassing, he said with a nervous laugh. I was listening at

the door when she went in for her audition, and when she came out, she opened the

door and hit me in the head. He shook his head, remembering how embarrassed

hed felt when he was talking to her. I think I made her feel really bad, but it was all

my fault. I tried to play it off cool, though.

Isaac smiled knowingly. His new best friend had two boys smitten with her. If only hehad such luck.

Anyways, Thomas said with a shake of his head, bringing himself back to the

present, are you going to the dance tonight?

Yep, Isaac replied, Violet and I are actually going to get ready together. And were

going to Lauren Robinsons party afterwards. What about you?

Thomas blinked. Yeah... youre going with Violet? he asked.

It clicked in Isaacs head what Thomas must have been thinking and he

backtracked. Oh! No, its not like that. I bat for the other team- He choked on hiswords. He resisted the impulse to clamp his hand over his mouth. Hed only just

came out to Violet, and now all of a sudden he was blabbing about his sexual

orientation to anyone he came across? It was so unlike him. At his old school, he

couldnt have been deeper in the closet.

But Thomas didnt bat an eye. In fact, he looked somewhat relieved. Oh, okay, he

said. Yeah, Im going to the party afterwards too. So I guess Ill see you there.


35/42

Youll see me there too, Tommy.

Both boys simultaneously spotted the small blonde girl approaching them in the

hallway, and both boys felt the same dread and annoyance at her presence.

Hey, Becca, Thomas said with an obligatory smile. Youre going to the party too,

then?

Becca tossed her hair over her shoulder. Please, she scoffed, Im practically

planning it. Lauren wants it to be a huge hit. And it will be. She smiled at Thomas.

So I might see you there, I guess, if Im not to busy with Ben.

Ben who? Isaac asked dubiously.

Ben MacDonald, Becca retorted, as if everyone should know who Ben was. Hes a

dance major. His father works for Research in Motion as a physicist.

Isaac bit his lip to stop himself from asking why it mattered what his father did. ButThomas just smiled at Becca. Thats nice, he said.

Becca smiled back and gave the two boys a little wave. Well, Ive got to go meet

Lauren. Ciao!

After she walked away Isaac let out a little chuckle, and Thomas turned to look at

him.

Sorry, Isaac apologized. I shouldnt laugh. Shes your friend-

Shes- well, shes... Thomas interjected, but he didnt know how to finish that

sentence. To be honest, I thought she was going to ask me to go to the dance withher. Im... glad she didnt. But I guess that means Im flying solo tonight.

You should come and get ready with Violet and me! Isaac suggested.

Thomas face lit up. Really? Are you sure?

Yeah, itll be fun! Were heading to my house right after school. You should come

with.

Okay! Wait, Thomas sighed, I dont have any clothes with me or anything. I dont

even have my wallet.

Isaac brushed off Thomas concern with a flick of his hand. We can stop at your

house on the way to my house. Im driving anyways.

Thomas smiled. Alright then. Thanks.

No problem. Itll be fun, Isaac said, happy to extend his circle of friends he was

making at the conservatory. He felt a warm feeling spread through him that he


36/42

hadnt felt at his old school, and knew at once that the sensation came from the

acceptance and belonging he felt at the Hudson Conservatory. He glanced over at

his new friend and smiled. Yes, things were going to be different this year.

.....................................................................................................................................

.

Violet stood at her locker, gathering her books for her first two classes of the day.

She felt light carefree, humming to herself. She knew it was going to be a good day,

and nothing could possibly bring her down.

Out of the corner of her eye she saw Henry approaching. When he got to his locker

he turned and smiled at her.

Good morning, he said.

Hey! she replied happily.

Excited for the dance tonight?

Yeah, she said. What about you? Band is performing, right?

He nodded. Yeah, were performing a few songs halfway through the dance. He

lowered his eyes for a moment, and then looked back up at Violet, hoping shed

catch his meaning. But for the rest of the dance were not going to be playing.

Violets heart jumped as she realized what this statement implied, and her mind

began to whirl as she tried to decipher whether or not he had said that purposefully,

while simultaneously trying to seem somewhat composed on the outside. he had

forgotten how much work it was having a crush.

If she was going to ask him to the dance, it was now or never. Isaac had said that he

wouldnt mind if she asked Henry. She almost mustered up enough courage to ask

him before she caught herself. If he said no, shed never be able to face him again

without her face turning beet red. She liked that he talked to her, that she had a

cool senior as a friend. If she asked him and he declined, shed ruin that. So she

held back.

Then I guess Ill see you there.

Henry dropped his gaze and pretended to be busy looking for something in hislocker. He had thought that maybe she was going to ask him. He didnt understand,

so he asked a question he wasnt sure he wanted to know the answer to, trying to

appear casual.

Have you asked anyone?

Well, Im taking Isaac, she answered.


37/42

Henry felt like his heart fall into his stomach. Oh, he said, unable to think of

anything else to say.

Violets mind was racing. She tried to think of a way to hint to Henry her real

intentions without wearing her heart on her sleeve, so that if he responded

positively she could open up more, but if he responded negatively she could play itoff cool. A hint...

Save me a dance? she blurted out without thinking.

Yeah, Henry responded too quickly. I mean, yeah, for sure.

The school bell rang, indicating that it was time to start heading to class. There was

a flurry of movement around them as students headed to their first period

classrooms.

Well, Henry said as he closed his locker, see you around, Violet.

Later, she said, clutching her messenger bag and turning to walk away. As soon as

she had turned around her face broke out into an enormous smile that she couldnt

help.

Henry watched her figure walk down the hallway. As soon as he was sure she was

out of sight, he literally jumped up and down once.

And from behind the set of double doors at the end of the hallway, Lauren watched

the scene unravel, seething. She turned on her heel and walked away, her mind

already whirling.

.....................................................................................................................................

.

At the end of the day, Violet, Isaac, and Thomas all headed out to the parking lot,

giddy with excitement at the prospect of the fun evening before them. Thomas

climbed into the passenger seat of Isaacs Audi (with about the same reaction as

Violet had given it the first time she saw it) in order to give Isaac directions to his

house to pick up his things.

They drove all the way to Thomas house with the windows down, radio up,

screaming the lyrics to Dynamite and laughing hysterically. Secretly, all three of

them were happy to have found friends like this the first week at their new school.

As they pulled into the driveway at Thomas house, Thomas undid his seatbelt.

Ill be back in a second, he said as he opened his car door. But then he paused.

Wait, is this a dressy dance, or is it casual? he asked, looking at the other two.


38/42

Isaac clapped his hands together once. Never pass up an opportunity to rock a

kick-ass outfit.

Thomas raised an eyebrow at Isaac, who laughed. Ill help you pick something out.

Mind if I come in?

Not at all, Thomas said. He turned to Violet. Youre welcome to come in, too.

The three friends climbed out of Isaacs car and walked up to Thomas house. The

door was unlocked and the three of them walked in.

At the end of the narrow entrance hallway, Thomas could see his father standing

over the stove in the kitchen. He didnt say anything as he lead the three of them

down the hallway. He thought he could duck up the stairs on the right side of the

end of the hallway unnoticed, but sure enough, his father turned around and looked

confused and slightly annoyed at finding two strangers in his house.

Whoa, son, you should really ask before you invite people over, you know, hesaid, narrowing his eyes.

Were just grabbing some stuff and then were heading back out, Thomas

grumbled.

Oh. Alright then, his father mumbled. There was an awkward silence before he

added, Arent you going to introduce me to your friends?

Thomas sighed and nodded in the general direction of his friends. Violet, Isaac, this

is my dad. Dad, this is Violet Parker and Isaac Fischer.

Arthur Grays eyes narrowed again as he scrutinized his sons new friends. His eyesonly fell on Violet momentarily. She seemed ordinary enough and passed his

inspection for now.

But then his eyes landed on Isaac. The boys hair was styled and pin straight, and

his outfit, a burgundy knit sweater with gray skinny jeans, shiny black boots and -

was that a necklace? - did not pass his immediate inspection. But he refrained from

saying anything about it - hed talk to his son about it privately when he got the

chance.

Violet noticed the scrutiny Isaac seemed to be under and gave him a sideways

glance. Isaac shifted uncomfortably but seemed to be holding Mr. Grays gaze. Shefelt a stab of sympathy for Isaac.

Thomas must have noticed too, because he jolted everyone out of the tense

moment by saying, Can we go now, Dad?

Arthur nodded. Sure. But I need to talk to you for a second first.


39/42

Thomas stuck his tongue in his cheek. He really didnt want to do this right now, but

he knew he had no choice. He gestured for his friends to head up the stairs. You

guys can go up if you want and start picking out an outfit. First door on your right.

Ill be up soon.

Violet and Isaac exchanged glances but said nothing. They both headed up thestairs.

Once Thomas heard the door to his room shut, he rounded on his father. Really,

Dad? Right now? What could possibly be-

But Arthur was already walking towards the kitchen. Thomas let out a scowl and

begrudgingly followed his father.

Arthur leaned against the kitchen counter and crossed his arms. Thomas stopped in

the doorway of the kitchen and leaned against the door frame.

What?

Dont take that tone with me, his father warned. You should ask before you invite

people-

Dad, were just stopping in! Thomas argued.

Thats not all. Arthur paused, uncomfortable with the situation. Why are they

here?

Thomas huffed. Theyre helping me pick out an outfit for the dance tonight. Is that

a problem?

Is that girl your date? his father asked.

That girl has a name. Remember when you made me introduce her? And no, Violet

is not my date. Shes a friend, Thomas said scathingly.

Arthur paused and pursed his lips together. He breathed through his nose heavily

and tried to collect himself before responding. Let me get this straight. You and

your two girlfriends are here to pick out a pretty outfit for you?

Thomass jaw dropped and he felt his face heat up. He turned around with every

intention to storm out of the room, but instead he turned back to face his father. Hisface was red and his jaw was tight.

You know, youve said a lot of stupid things before, Dad, but I think this one takes

the cake. He paused, clenching his fists. He felt like throwing something at his dad,

or hitting him, smacking the ignorance out of him. But he knew that wouldnt

change anything.

I hate you. Those are my friends. Dont you ever talk about them like that again.


40/42

He turned on his heel and stormed out of the room and down the front hallway. He

saw Violet and Isaac coming down the stairs with some of his clothes, and he

walked to the front door and opened it for them, trying to show them that they

needed to leave right away. He wanted to get out before his father screwed things

up even more.

But his father called after him.

This is why I didnt want you going to that school in the first place! I knew it would

turn you into a girl!

Violet and Isaac rushed out the door when they realized that things had escalated

between Thomas and his father. Thomas made sure his friends were out before

slamming the door behind him without a second glance at his dad.

The three friends stood on the porch, motionless. Thomas face was beet red, but it

wasnt anger anymore - it was from humiliation. Tears stung at his eyes and he

blinked them away. Hed always known that his father was a mans man, but hednever known that he was homophobic. And now his dad had scared off his two new

friends. Hed blown it.

He looked up to apologize to his friends (if he could still call them that) and he

expected to see two angry sets of eyes glaring at him accusatorially. But instead, he

saw that Isaac and Violets eyes were filled with nothing but concern and sympathy.

He shook his head, unable to form an apology that would suffice. But Isaac and

Violet understood, and they each hugged one side of Thomas. The three friends (for,

despite what Thomas had thought, they were still friends) held on to that moment

of silence, which was not uncomfortable or awkward. It was everything they needed

to say.

.....................................................................................................................................

.

The silence continued in the car (a rare occurrence in Isaacs Audi) and in Isaacs

room on the other side of town. Thomas munched angrily on Cheetos, his fingers

turning a florescent orange, on a beanbag chair in the corner of the room. Violet sat

at Isaacs desk, using a small mirror to apply powder to her face. She occasionally

turned the mirror slightly to steal glances at Thomas, who seemed to be trapped in

his head.

Isaac had tried to make his guests feel at ease. The minute his friends had settles

with their things in his room, he ran down the stairs two at a time and went to his

kitchen to grab all the comfort food he could find. Though he had been affected by

what had happened at Thomas house, he knew he could sort through his feelings

later. At that moment, he needed to help his friends.


41/42

But the comfort food hadnt helped, and the three friends sat quietly in Isaacs

room. Isaacs mind ran through conversation starters, and he wondered if he should

ask if anyone wanted to talk about what had happened. But he decided against

opening that can of worms.

He looked around his room, looking for something, anything, to cheer his friends up.His eyes landed on his old school boom box, and he got an idea.

He crossed the room and pushed the power button on the boom box. You guys

dont mind if I play some music, do you? he asked.

Violet shook her head silently. Thomas didnt respond and chomped down on

another Cheeto.

Okay then, Isaac said, turning the dial on his boom box. The bass started crackling

in the speakers, and as Isaac turned around he saw a smile break out on Violets

face as she recognized the song.

Oh my God, I havent heard this song in forever!

Isaac smiled and broke out some retro nineties dance moves as he sang the first

few lines of the song.

Everybody, yeah, rock your body yeah,

Everybody, yeah, rock your body right.

Backstreets back, alright!

Violet put her makeup brush back in her bag and turned around in her seat to faceIsaac. She began to seat-dance and laughed as Isaac grooved to the boy band song.

Oh my God, went back again.

Brothers, sisters, everybody sing.

Gonna bring the flavour, show you how.

Gotta a question for you. Better answer now, yeah.

Violet stood up and pretended to hold a microphone in her hand as she took the

next part of the song. Isaac took this as his cue to back her up vocally. He lookedover at Thomas, who looked like he had no intention of joining in.

Am I original? (Yeah)

Am I the only one? (Yeah)

Am I sexual? (Yeah)


42/42

At this, Violet and Isaac did outrageous hip-thrusting dance movements, and

Thomas put down the Cheetos.

Am I everything you need?

You better rock your body now!

At the chorus, both Isaac and Violet crossed the room and danced like fools in front

of Thomas, who was beginning to crack a smile.

Everybody, yeah (yeah)

Rock your body, yeah (yeah)

Everybody, yeah

Rock your body, right

Backstreets back, alright!

The dancing and singing became too much for Violet, who had started giggling so

hard during the chorus that she doubled over, clutching her stomach because she

was laughing so hard that it hurt. Thomas rubbed his face as he laughed at how

ridiculous his two friends were being, and put a hand on Violets shoulder to steady

her.

Isaac, still dancing like a lunatic, flailed his arms and hopped up and down to the

music, until he accidentally knocked over a stack of books sitting on the table next

to Thomas beanbag chair. This brought on another onset of giggles, and Violet

laughed so hard that she collapsed on top of Thomas in the bean bag chair.

Isaac jumped on top of Violet and the three friends, now in a human pile, lost

balance and fell out of the chair and onto the ground. Now, all three of them were

laughing hysterically, and their troubles from earlier that afternoon were

temporarily forgotten.

The Conservatory

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Transcript of The Conservatory