Short Story - Borrowing Berkley

Short Story

By Jackie Brewster Borrowing Berkley

“You take Berkley over to the swings and wait.” She handed him the dog’s lead. “When I give the signal come running over and give me assistance.” “Assistance with what?” Lewis was alarmed. “What are you going to do?” “Just pretend we don’t know each other, and it’ll look like you’re helping a lady in distress.” Mabel adjusted her hat. “That’ll impress her. You’ll be the talk of the school playground.” “We don’t call it a playground,” Lewis protested. “I’m in the sixth form you know, we don’t play.” Mabel was already walking away from him, her wellies squelching as she went. “If you want my advice on how to impress girls,” Berkley sniffed a tree and Lewis watched his aunt Mabel declared, “you’ve got to show a bit of warily. As she reached the edge of the path she chivalry.” deliberately sat down on the ground. Even though Lewis desperately needed advice on “Help, I’ve fallen!” she called out. how to impress girls, his Aunt Mabel would be the Lewis was mortified. Presumably this was his cue last person he’d ask. to go dashing over and rescue her. However, Becky “She’s a nice young lady.” Mabel pointed at the girl was closer and reached Mabel first. jogging across the park. “She would be just right “Are you hurt?” Becky sounded concerned. “Can I for you.” help?” “Keep your voice down,” Lewis blushed. “She’ll “Not you!” Mabel protested. “I need that young hear you.” man to help me.” Lewis had volunteered to walk Mabel’s dog, Berkley, “What young man?” Becky looked around. round the park. Unfortunately, he hadn’t planned “That chivalrous young man.” Mabel pointed at on Mabel coming too. She wore mismatched Lewis. “Who I’ve never met before in my life.” Lewis wellies and a hat that looked as though it was part dithered. His aunt’s plan was ludicrous, but it might of a jester costume. just work. “You just need to get her to notice you,” Mabel Pulling Berkeley, he ran over, reached for Mabel’s said. Being noticed was certainly something Mabel hand and hauled her to her feet. was an expert on, Lewis thought ruefully. “There you go, Madam,” he said stiffly, “I hope “She’s called Becky,” Lewis muttered under his you’re alright.” breath. “She’s at my school.” Berkeley yapped excitedly and licked Mabel’s face. Becky trained on the park every day after school. “Aww Berkeley,” Mable laughed. “Were you worried Lewis desperately wanted Becky to notice him, about Mummy?” but he wasn’t about to tell Mabel that. In class Becky scowled at Lewis. that morning he’d overheard Becky telling her “Were you trying to steal this lady’s dog?” She friend how much she loved dogs and would always turned to Mabel. “Should I call the police?” stop to pet them. He hatched a plan to borrow “Don’t worry,” Mabel said, cuddling Berkley, “I’m Berkeley, stroll casually past Becky and strike up a sure he was just borrowing him.” conversation. Keep it simple. “Alright,” Becky nodded, looking at her watch. His aunt had other ideas. “I’ve got to go but shout if he gives you any more “She’s not seen us yet has she?” She glanced over trouble.” her shoulder at Becky, who had paused to do some “Why did you say that?” Lewis cried, as soon as stretches. “She doesn’t know we’re together?” Becky left them. “She thinks I’m a dog thief now.” “Whatever you’re planning,” Lewis panicked, “don’t “Say what?” Mabel dusted herself down. “It was a do it.” But Mabel wasn’t listening. complete success. She’s definitely noticed you now.” 66 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

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