MIDNIGHT RIDER PART 11

'In the wake of this...threat what should be our next step?'mused Roha talking more to herself than anybody else.

She was propped up in the middle of the bed while Amish and Kyra  occupied pouffes,sitting as far from each other as possible,leaving a wide space for that hideous graffiti even as the dead rabbit hung ominously above their heads.

Roha had hoped that maybe the present scenario will knock some senses in her friends,but she was proved wrong.Amish and Kyra were perceptibly standoffish towards each other,spasmodically shooting disdainful looks at the other when they thought Roha wasn't looking.

'I don't know,but these people certainly have got an eyeful of us and may cause harm if we go prying.'Kyra said uncertainly.

'Shall we report the matter to local police ?'Amish suggested.

'Hmmm..I think that's the best option we have.But first we need to tell Mrs.D'souza everything-including yesterday's misadventure.'

'What will we do that for?'Amish looked thunderstruck.

'Do you want her to eat us alive?'Kyra demanded,looking at Roha as if she were insane.

'Guys try to understand my point.Even if we directly approach the authorities,Mrs.D'souza will come to know about it and then we will be in a graver trouble.Besides if we tell her the truth,she may even prove to be helpful.'Roha said reasonably.

Kyra and Amish stared at her and she could see her logic working on them.

'OK!But who will tie the bell around the cat's neck?'

'I think you should do it Ro as you are her favourite student.That's the best shot at damage control that we have.We'll accompany you of course!'Kyra said nervously.

Roha took a deep breath,gathering her courage.

'Alright,let's go!She must be in the garden with others.'

'NOW!' a startled chorus rang in the room.

'So when?The sooner we get through it,the better!'

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The trio strolled in the garden,amidst their chattering classmates,who were lolling around in twos and threes.

'Hey book worm!How many poor books did you feast on today?'

Fred joked to general sniggering,which was studiously ignored by Roha.

Mrs.D'souza was sitting in a secluded corner,with a book in her hand.Kyra and Amish practically hid behind Roha as she looked up,sensing their presence.

'Yes dears?'

'Ma'am actually we've g..got something important.. to tell you.'Roha began nervously.

'Am I about to find out what three of you were doing when you were supposed to be in your bed last night?'

Her solemn question shocked the trio into silence.