Band Camp

Chapter the First: An Exciting Opportunity

I woke up to the sound of the rain on a dreary monday morning.

It usually wasn't too bad, but since we had to patch up the roof with a bit of old tin, it was ridiculously loud.

I groaned to myself, knowing that I wasn't getting any more sleep this morning. I reluctantly threw my feet of the bed and stood up, making my way to the shower.

I turned the shower on and hoped Mom hadn't used all the hot water. It ended up being freezing cold, though I still took a shower.

When I was finally dressed in my usual outfit, and my hair was all brushed, and my teeth all cleaned, I headed downstairs to find my father.

"Morning Theodore." My father greeted.

"Morning." I smiled, sitting down at the bench. "Where's Mom?"

"At work."

I nodded. "Right."

"Anyway, did you sleep well?" He asked as he started pouring me a bowl of cereal.

I shrugged. "The rain woke me up. That tin patch isn't quiet."

"Yeah, I realised. Sorry, though. I'll have to find something better."

"No, no, it's okay." I assured.

"It's really not." He sighed.

"It is!" I tried to change the subject. "Do you have another interview today?"

He nodded. "I feel really good about this one."

"That's awesome." I smiled. "I'm sure you'll get it this time Dad."

"Thanks." He smiled. He placed the bowl of cereal in front of me.

I took a spoonful. "So, what's the job?

"How's it taste?"

I gave him a look. "What's the job, Dad?"

"That's not important."

"Dad?" I asked again, my voice a lot softer this time.

"What?"

"What's the job?"

"It's not important Theo."

"It is." I told him firmly. "Come on."

"I'm not telling you. Now, finish your breakfast."

"Dad!"

"It's just a job, okay?"

"What job?"

"I'm not telling you. It's one I said I'd never take." He mumbled.

I frowned. "Dad..."

"It'll be fine. I don't think I'll have much competition."

"What is it?" I asked.

"It's nothing. If I tell you you'll worry."

"I'm worried now."

"Don't be. I promise, it'll be fine. We can talk when you get home from school."

"Promise you'll tell me?"

"I promise."

I smiled. "Good."

"Are you ready to go to school?"

I nodded. "Yeah, all ready."

He smiled. "I knew I could trust you to get ready."

I rolled my eyes playfully. "I'm nearly 15 Dad."

"I don't believe you."

I laughed and took another bite of my cereal.