Happy and Stuff

Sixth period was cancelled so everyone could attend the pep rally. I’d never imagined a group of kids could be so psyched about a game. Girls ran into the bathroom before heading to the gym - then came out with their faces painted with navy blue and silver slashes.

Boys ran down the hall with streamers flying over their heads chanting, “Death to Deacons!” - Deacons being Deacon’s School for Boys, St. Mary’s biggest rival and our opponent in tonight’s game. Or so Miri told me.

She pulled me along behind her when I would’ve liked to just skip out early. I thought she’d want that too, but instead her eyes shone with excitement as she yanked me into an uncomfortable seat on the gym bleachers. Miri said this was the perfect way to get to know Mary’s - to see them at their best. And somehow, she seemed to mean it.

“What gives?” I asked, leaning into her so we could hear each other over the noise.