Noel’s mother brings in a tray of pop and asks after their welfare. She knowingly asks Peter how ‘things’ are up in Rugby. “Fine thanks.” Peter sheepishly replied. He knows she knows more than he’d want her to know and all he can do is hope she doesn’t broach the subject. The boys boot up the X Box and play various Battlefront missions, stages and multiplayer battles. They chat about old times, old friends, TV shows, music and eventually, the subject of Peter’s new friends and new school comes up. It turns out that EP is a tricky subject in Mark’s house because Castleview Primary are going to give EP a trial run, and that’s where his eight year old brother goes. “Blimey!” Peter says. Speaking from experience, he wouldn’t wish it on anyone. “When’s that start?” he asked. “September?” he presumed.
“After Easter.” Mark replied.
“Who fancies a three way snow speeder battle?” Noel suggested. “Sorry guys… but all this talk of EP schools is giving me the willies.” he said, gesturing with his controller. Mark and Peter got the message and got themselves involved in gaming.
“This is loads easier than those forest bike things.” Peter said, having just taken out Noel for the second time.
“You’re actually quite good at this.” Mark said. “You got it?” he asked.
“Nah… still got the old 360. Hardly play it though.”
“Really?” Noel said. “You used to be terrible at this and now I can’t…” Pete shot at him, again and again. “…shake…” Noel steered the controller from left to right. “…you…” he jabbed the airbrake, hoping to take advantage of their phenomenal speed. “..off.”
“You must’ve set me to easy mode.” Peter supposed as he finished Noel off for the third time. They assured him they hadn’t. Peter assumed that the game must be easier than the others they used to play. They assured him it wasn’t. “Must just be my lucky day then.” he guessed.
“Either that or you’ve gone jedi.” Mark grinned. “Is it good? Rogue One?” he asked.
“I liked it.” Peter replied. “I really wanna see it again now!” he said. Playing a video game set in the same fictional universe has really got him in the mood. Mark suggested he come and Peter considered it for a fraction of a second. “Nah. I’ve no money.” he said.