He’d not worn the uniform since the day it was purchased several weeks ago, and he wasn’t looking forward to wearing it tomorrow… outside, all day.

The following morning, both Michael and his mother were a bundle of nerves as he buttoned up his jacket. His mother picked up his satchel and opened it. “You’d better take a ‘brolly just in case it rains.” She said as she slipped a small umbrella into his school bag.

“It would have been easier to get me a coat with a hood.” Michael silently mused. “Thanks, mum.” He replied.

His mother kissed him on the forehead and wished him good luck. She smiled as she watched him walk down the path, proud that she’d got him into Ashford Academy. She adored his uniform. He looked so sweet in his Mary Jane’s and white knee socks and his box pleated culottes. “It’s almost like having a daughter.” She pondered as she began the housework.