Chapter 23b: Thank You for Calling

"Thank you for calling the SSSS"

Salina wasn't having much luck finding an ad for the athletic career on the computer, so I sent her out to check out the want ads in the paper. While she was picking up the paper, there was suddenly this loud BANG and the trash can tipped over. As I zoomed in to see WTF happened, Felicia came trotting out of the can and proceeded to start playing in the trash. The stinky little weasel! So that's who keeps knocking over the trash!

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"Thank you for calling the Strangetown School for Special Students. This is Diane. How may I assist in your quest for knowledge?"

"Yes, my youngest son just started school today and I would like to apply for entrance to SSSS for him."

"We'll be happy to send a headmaster out to interview your family. Your name and your son's name please sir."

"Cleveland Holldum. My son is Treynor Holldum. His sister Omaha already attends SSSS."

"One moment please sir."

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"Thank you for holding Mr. Holldum. One of our headmasters will be over for the interview tonight at 5:00. Is there anything else I can assist you with?"

"No, I think that's all."

"Thank you for calling the Strangetown School for Special Students. *click*"

"Why do I have a very bad feeling about this?"

I have no idea...

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So in preparation for the headmaster's visit, everyone tried to do a little something to get ready.

Salina took Felicia out for a rousing game of razzle to wear her out, so she would leave the trash alone and not beg for treats at the kitchen table. She then gave the lil chi-hooa-hooa a thorough bath (and mopped up the puddle in the dirt afterwards)

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Omaha called up Thor to help her get in a better mood for the visit. She wasn't too keen on having her little brother follow her around at SSSS and figured a little lovin' would help.

Unfortunately, Thor kept shutting her down.

And see what I mean about "mopping up the puddle in the dirt' *chuckle*

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Treynor took a shower and made sure he was squeaky clean (and that his fauxhawk was nice and pointy)

"I'm Peter Pan!"

Not in that outfit you're not.

"I'm the Punk Peter Pan! Nyah!"

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Finally the hour arrived, and a familiar face stepped out of the SSSS car: Headmaster Matthew Gibson.

Shelby was ready and waiting for him.

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"Ah Matthew... er... Headmaster Gibson. It's so good to see you again."

"Shelby *cough* Mrs. Holldum, the delight is all mine. I didn't realize you had a second child. *whisper* His father is Mr. Holldum?"

"Oh, Treynor definitely is a Holldum. You'll understand when you meet him."

"You'll be... um... conducting the tour this time as well?"

"Of course Headmaster Gibson. We've got a new hot tub."

You might want to be careful there Shelby...

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In case you've forgotten, your husband is actually home tonight.

Stinky, but home.

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So Texas served her best pork chops to the headmaster, who didn't seem to pay much attention to the rest of the family... or to the rest of the house even. Isn't he supposed to be evaluating the place and if they're fit for entrance to SSSS? Shelby sure doesn't seem too concerned about creating a good impression.

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Obviously manners are not taught at SSSS. Headmaster Gibson's as sloppy as Shelby, and she's a pretty messy eater. I've seen the neatniks make urpy faces at her.

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"So now for the... ah... tour Headmaster Gibson. Since your last visit we've had this lovely back patio installed, complete with hot tub."

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"It's so relaxing after a stressful day. Would you like to join me?"

"I'd be delighted Mrs. Holldum. It has been a long day. I'm sure a soak in your tub would be quite enjoyable." *eyebrow waggle*

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"You know, it's almost a criminal offense to bribe a headmaster. Almost, but not quite."

"I would never bribe a headmaster. I'm a woman who craves wealth and success, and getting my youngest into SSSS can help achieve that. Besides, we're just two old friends relaxing. I'm not trying to influence you Matthew... er Headmaster Gibson."

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"I'm glad to hear that Mrs. Holldum. I would hate to have to turn your son away for attempted bribery. Perhaps we should discuss our school's curriculum."

"Oh yes. Please tell me about the classes you offer in... physical education." *smirk*

Shelby, Shelby, Shelby...

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Your husband is eating dinner just scant yards (and walls) away.

"I thought the headmaster was supposed to be here for an interview."

"He done was. Shelby done hauled him off to tour the house. Didn't ya run into 'em upstairs?"

"Actually I think they like totally headed outside to tour the hot tub or somethin."

"Hot tub?"

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"Our physical education classes are among the best. And most thorough, helping Strangetown's youth build the body skills they need in life."

"Are they now? Perhaps you can give me a demonstration of those you skills you can build, Headmaster Gibson."

"I would be a pleasure to demonstrate for you Shelby... er, Mrs. Holldum."

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Headmaster Gibson must be very good at skill building.

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Someone, however, seems a little less than thrilled with his talents.

How about we take a little break to cool off from the hot tub before we continue, eh?
*evilgrin*

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