Chapter 9: The Boyfriend

After the dramatic weekend, returning to school for my math test was all I could think about. Math was my sanctuary, and I found it to be both fascinating and effortless. Last week, Mr. Holman had invited me to join the advanced math class, and ever since, I'd been adapting to the more challenging material. The class was predominantly filled with seniors, including Kaycee and Maeve.

As the test concluded, which had proven to be a bit more challenging than usual, my thoughts returned to the events of the party. I realized with a pang of anxiety that I hadn't spoken to Ross since that night.

Walking to my next class, English, my eyes couldn't believe what they saw. There, in the hallway, was Ross, locked in an intimate embrace with another girl from the programming club. My heart sank, and a whirlwind of emotions overtook me. I stood there in shock, trying to process the sight before me.

Questions swirled in my mind. What had happened between us? Why hadn't he reached out? The uncertainty loomed heavy, and I couldn't help but wonder how this would affect our relationship and what it meant for our future.

I quickly entered the classroom, my mind still reeling from the sight of Ross with another girl. My attention was far from the lesson being taught, which happened to be a discussion of "Things Fall Apart" by Chinua Achebe. My focus wandered, my thoughts consumed by the recent events and the uncertainty surrounding my relationship with Ross.

Suddenly, my attention snapped back to the present as Mr. "Big Head" (Alex) walked into the room and took a seat behind me. His observation skills were sharp, and he couldn't help but notice my somber expression. He leaned closer and asked, "Are you okay?"

I replied with a forced smile, "I'm fine," though my attempt to mask my emotions was feeble at best.

He continued to study my face, his concern evident. It was clear that I didn't possess a strong poker face, and he could see right through my façade. The class proceeded, with us discussing "Things Fall Apart."

Then, our teacher, Mrs. RoseAnn, interrupted our class. She singled me out and asked if I could narrate the story for the class. Though my mind was still preoccupied, I had read the book and could provide a summary without much effort.

I began summarizing the story, recounting the tale of Okonkwo, a respected warrior haunted by the actions of his father, Unoka. As I spoke, I tried to gather my thoughts, but it was challenging. My mind was preoccupied with the complexities of love, relationships, and the newfound distance between me and Ross.

Mrs. RoseAnn complimented my ability to recall the book's content but then advised me to pay attention. It was a reminder that life's challenges should not disrupt my education, and that I needed to focus on my studies despite the turmoil in my personal life.

As the school bell rang, signaling the end of the class, I hurriedly made my way to the restroom. Lily, who had noticed my distressed state, followed closely behind. Once inside the restroom, I began to explain everything that had been bothering me.

I poured my heart out to Lily, sharing my feelings of confusion, hurt, and frustration about what I had witnessed with Ross. As I spoke, I realized how fortunate I was to have a friend like Lily who would listen and offer support during challenging times.

Friendship, with its trust and unwavering support, was a priceless treasure, and in that moment, I couldn't help but feel grateful for having Lily by my side. I knew that no matter what obstacles we faced, our friendship would endure, and that thought gave me solace in the midst of my personal turmoil.