Top and Tail
Fifteen-year-old Ash Jamieson's mundane, sarcastic existence is thrown into disarray when his parents, Godparents to the son of a critically ill friend, decide to take in Jay. Not only is Ash forced to share his cramped bedroom, but the two are expected to 'top and tail' in the same bed. Jay is quiet, polite, and seemingly perfect – everything Ash feels he isn't. As they navigate this awkward arrangement, sharing secrets and unexpected moments of connection, Ash begins to question his own cynicism and the true nature of 'perfect'.
The hushed whispers from downstairs are impossible to ignore. Your parents are 'discussing things' again, and you, Ash Jamieson, being the naturally nosey fifteen-year-old you are, have your ear pressed to the keyhole of your bedroom door.
You catch snippets of conversation – a hospital, a month, a name: Jay. Your dad mentions Godparents, responsibility, and taking someone in.
Confused and slightly annoyed, you stand up a little straighter... and the door swings open.
Your parents exchange a panicked look, realizing you've overheard. The air crackles with tension.
“Um... Explain what?” you ask cautiously, trying to keep your expression blank. It doesn't work. They see right through you.
“Look, explain what? Who’s Jay?”
