Chapter 21

Pat

The class is pretty much the same as usual. The usual change in faces, snickers from students, and the new interest of everyone in the class on me. In the last three hours, I’ve made five acquaintances (I refuse to address them as friends) with people who have never looked me in the eyes. What is different, though, is Ricky texting me.

“Hey, Pat. You’ll forgive me for not responding earlier? My attention was mugged by friends, and I didn’t have the time to do anything before running to Moka’s today.

Congratulations. I’m glad.”

I read the message twice before finally blowing out my cheeks and sending him a response. Is it just me, or did he sound uninterested? I hope he isn’t. He’s the one person I felt like telling.

Ugh.

“Thanks, Ricky. See you in the evening.”

The bell for break rings moments later, and I find myself anticipating what will come next. I pick through my belongings slowly, making sure not to meet anyone’s eyes.