Hello World

by Joanna Sellick

  I smile.

  ‘Neve,’ I say by way of introduction. I start walking forward again and Toby follows after me. To his surprise, I loop an arm through his, not feeling in the least bit uncomfortable in what I am doing. ‘Tell me something Toby,’ I begin, a smile playing on my lips.

  The evening is calm, yet the air seems to be filling up with anticipation. I don’t know this boy, but I won’t let him throw away his life. Just like Jay did with me. Second chances are a funny thing.

  I turn my head towards Toby and he raises his gaze, ready to listen to what I have to say. I smile again, letting the words fall out of my mouth without a second thought.

  ‘Have you ever heard the story of a boy called Jay Ellsworth, and a girl he liked to call Red?’