Seriously Weird: Gerald's Bird

rang so he went into his office and waved goodbye from beside his desk.

So that was the end of the tour.

The next day the wax boy arrived at school. That's what we called him anyway. He wasn't the same boy we'd seen at the waxworks. That would have been too weird and creepy! This boy one had a woolly hat on, and gloves, and soft, linen trousers, which went up to his shoulders like an overall.

But his skin was smooth and waxy, like he was sick or something.

"This is Gerald," said Mrs Bletcher, "He'll be with us for a week. His parents are visiting the country, and they don't want their boy to miss any school."

Everyone looked at Gerald.

"If you're wondering why Gerald is dressed like that," said Mrs Bletcher, "It's because of a rare medical condition. He has to protect himself from bumps and bangs, so please be considerate. No rough games, no slaps on the back. No punches! Understand?"

"Yes Mrs Bletcher!"

We all thought: "Poor Gerald!"

A spare desk was brought in, and Gerald sat quietly, glancing shyly around from time to time. Just like any new boy.

Over the next few days, Gerald slowly became part of the class. He never said much, but he was just like the rest of us, and Camile really liked him. She sat with him most of the lunch hour, and I saw her walking around the school with him at other times. I think what she liked about him most was the way he listened. He was a good listener, and Camile was a good talker. The perfect combination.

"Have you got a pet?" Camile said, when she and Gerald were standing by the pinned up drawings from pet day.

"No." said Gerald.

"Why not?"

"My parents are always traveling. Most hotels won't let you have animals. I'd love to have a pet of my own, but..."

"What about a cat?"

"Nope. Not even a budgie or a mouse?"