We spent hours looking up at the sky and cloud gazing. So much so, I was late getting back home. There was officially fifteen minutes before I had to walk through my house door, and Jim and I both knew we were twenty minutes away from home. Running wasn't going to get us anywhere, its too far and If I am late I will be grounded for it.

Jim had brought his board along so he came up with a great idea. He put an unbalanced person on it, me, and let them steer while he trotted along side.  Eh, but it was all okay, he helped a lot too. I got use to the feeling of the board, and began to steer on my own.  As soon I feel like I'm getting the hang of it, I'm alone with just myself and the board. I have to concentrate completely to keep from falling off.

Soon I was picking up speed, racing down the sidewalk, and feeling like a complete boss! But...I was really scared. The fear started to creep in when Jim first put me on his board. I held my screams inside, but then I opened my mouth, came out penetrating  the  slightly cold, windy, air. Tiny squeals were coming out as I hit some little bumps in the sidewalk. Then suddenly I feel large, warm, hands grip my waist . I didn't have to look back to know that it was Jim. I wanted to check to make sure it is really him but I have to keep concentrating. I stuck my tongue out the corner of my mouth and kept riding. A few seconds later I did ask, "What happened? Where did you go?".

"Umm," he answered,  " Got distracted, sorry". Either he's a  really bad liar, or I just know he's not telling the whole truth.  I turn back to look at him quickly, and gave him the "really?" look and  then I turned back around. 

After a few minutes we got back to my house, a few minutes late. Not too late though. I wasn't too worried about getting back a few minutes past my curfew,  but dad would kill me if he found out by myself with a boy. 

Before I walk over to the house I whisper to Jim, " Wait here. I will run inside so they see me and then run back out to tell you bye." I ran in the house but no one is home. What a relief. iI did a quick search and yelled for anyone but the house was empty. There was however a note stuck to the fridge, "Gretchen, gone to the grocery store, will be back later".

I step back outside and find Jim.  " No one is home. They left a note, they won't be back for a few hours. Want to come inside?" I asked.

I secretly hope he says yes, and joins me. By the time he said "Sure!", I was about ready to crack. He stashed his board in the bushes and then he followed me into the house