Page 28 of Branded Hearts

I grunt, climbing into the car. “Let’s get this wrapped up,” I mutter.

As I sit at my desk, the station buzzes with the boisterous chatter of my colleagues. The boys are in high spirits, swapping weekend stories with loud enthusiasm. I listen, but I don’t get involved. Their laughter fills the air, momentarily lifting the sombre mood that hangs over me.

“Oi, Bradley, you coming?” Reynolds calls out, breaking through the noise. He moves over and perches on the edge of my desk, arms crossed, waiting for a response. I didn’t catch what he said, so I’m confused.

“Where?” I ask, leaning back in my chair.

Reynolds clarifies, “To the pub for drinks? The Loose Lasso?”

I nod slowly, still feeling a bit hesitant. “I don’t know, Reynolds. I might just head home tonight,” I reply, my voice quiet amidst the lively chatter around us.

Reynolds raises an eyebrow, a hint of surprise in his expression. “Come on, mate. You’ve been working hard. A drink won’t hurt,” he insists, leaning in slightly.

I consider his words, his voice cutting through the background noise of the station. He’s right; I have been working hard, and tomorrow is my day off. I could use a break. With a mental shrug, I decide, why the hell not?

A tight smile forms on my lips. “One drink,” I say, reluctantly agreeing, my voice barely audible over the lively chatter around us.

Reynolds grins, smacking his thigh in approval. “That’s the spirit, mate! We won’t keep you out too late.”

I nod, acknowledging his words.

Reynolds winks at me before moving off my desk to join the rest of the guys. “Alright, Bradley’s in!” he announces, eliciting whistles and cheers from the group.

Later that night, as we clock off from our shifts and make our way out of the station, I can’t help but feel a slight sense of relief. It’ll be good to unwind with the boys after a long day. Maybe a drink or two will relax me, distract me from things, from Amelia.

Anything to ease the tension that’s been building up inside me.

10

A Bar Song (Tipsy) - Shaboozey

“Cheers to surviving another week!” Kristie exclaims, raising her glass. We all clink our glasses together, the sound ringing out over the din of the pub.

Jamie laughs, taking a sip of her drink. “Seriously, those kids are adorable, but they sure know how to wear you out.”

Stella nods in agreement. “I don’t think I’ve ever been so grateful for Friday night drinks.”

Amanda, the oldest of our group, chuckles. “You young ones have no idea. Wait until you hit my age.” We all laugh, the sound blending with the lively atmosphere of the pub.

The Loose Lasso is alive with energy, and I can’t help but soak it all in, a wide grin spreading across my face. The scent of alcohol and fried delights fill the air, adding to the excitement of the evening. Seated beside me are Kristie, with her infectious laughter and vibrant spirit, Jamie, always impeccably dressed and ready for a good time, Stella, whose witty sarcasm keeps us entertained, and Amanda, whose nurturing presence brings a sense of calm to our group.

We’ve been colleagues for the past three years, ever since I startedteaching. It’s been quite the journey together. Stella might be the newbie, but she fits in like glitter on a craft project, her vibrant personality blending effortlessly with ours. Most of the other staff at Koala Creek Primary are like wise old owls, full of years of teaching wisdom. But with this crew, age is just a number, and we’ve formed a bond that’s more like a wacky, loving family than mere colleagues.

As I glance at the drinks scattered across the table—some empty, some still full—I realise I’ve already had my fourth drink. Or is it my third? Well, who’s counting, anyway?

Trying to keep track of how many drinks I’ve had is like trying to keep track of how many times little Timmy asked to go to the bathroom today. Impossible!

Working with kindergarteners is undeniably adorable and fulfilling, but let’s be real, being around five- and six-year-olds all day, every day, can be mentally and physically exhausting.

And that’s putting it lightly.

As we chat and laugh, my body starts to hum with that familiar buzz from the alcohol, and I welcome it with a contented sigh.

“So, any plans for the weekend, Amelia?” Kristie asks, leaning in with a smile.

I take a sip of my drink, considering her question. “Well, I was thinking of catching up on some reading. Maybe finally finish that book I started last month.”

Jamie raises an eyebrow teasingly. “You mean the one you started and never got past the first chapter?”

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