Lukas tried not to laugh but failed, a smile breaking through as Mr Alex raised one hand for calm, though even he looked like he was fighting back amusement.
"Alright, alright. Let's not start a derby argument before registration."
The boy who had made the comment was sitting beside the empty seat Mr Alex had clearly assigned to Lukas. He had sharp eyes, a City-blue bracelet around one wrist, and the grin of someone who had waited all morning to say that line.
Mr Alex gestured toward the seat.
"You can sit there, Lukas."
Lukas walked down the row and placed his bag beside the chair.
The boy looked up at him, still grinning.
"Welcome to Manchester."
Lukas sat down.
Ryan, from the seat behind them, tapped Lukas lightly on the shoulder.
"Told you today would be different."
