Chapter 4: A Late Start, part two

Walking through the bustling hallways of the school beside Genesis, Bill felt the anxiety rising within him, like a relentless wave threatening to engulf his composure. He trailed a few steps behind her, his breath coming in shallow, audible gasps. Beads of sweat formed on his forehead, and he instinctively wiped them away with the sleeve of his hoodie. The silence between them weighed heavily, almost suffocating, and Bill knew it was time to break it.

"So, Genesis, where do you hail from?" Bill asked, his voice betraying the nervousness that had taken hold of him.

Genesis appeared mildly surprised by his question and replied, "So, you do speak," accompanied by a playful smile.

Bill chuckled nervously. "Of course, I speak. It's just that today marks my first day, and I must admit, I was feeling somewhat anxious."

"I'm a local," Genesis answered. "I've called this place home for the entirety of my existence. And you, Bill? Where do you originate from?"

"Me? I hail from Utah," Bill responded.

Genesis raised an eyebrow, her tone tinged with playful teasing. "Quite the transition, from the expanse of Utah to the quietude of Kentucky. What prompted your family to venture here? There doesn't appear to be much going on in these parts."

Bill let out a sigh. "Honestly, I'm not entirely certain why we chose to relocate to Kentucky. It was my mother's decision."

Genesis offered an understanding smile. "Well, at least we have the finest chicken establishment here, KFC."

"What's KFC?" Bill inquired, playing along.

Genesis appeared genuinely taken aback this time. "You mean to tell me you're not acquainted with KFC?" she asked.

Bill laughed. "Genesis, I jest. I'm well aware of it."

Genesis smirked. "Did you just refer to me as 'Gen,' Billy?" she asked, her tone light-hearted.

Bill blushed slightly. "I apologize, Genesis. I simply thought... I'm sorry."

Genesis burst into laughter. "I'm only teasing, Bill. Actually, I was surprised because you're the first person to address me as 'Gen.' Most individuals usually opt for 'Gennie.'"

Bill chuckled nervously. "That wasn't exactly humorous, Gen."

"Very well, I shall cease," Genesis replied. "But you know, Bill, I find myself quite fond of you. You should consider joining us this evening. A few of my acquaintances and I are planning to engage in a game of bowling. I believe you would integrate seamlessly."

"Are you certain?" Bill inquired, still harboring a degree of uncertainty.

Genesis nodded assuredly. "Without a doubt. Do you happen to possess a telephone?"

"Yes, I do," Bill affirmed.

"I shall transmit the particulars to you via text. What is your number?"

"Allow me a moment... It is '801-xxx-xxxx.' Have you noted it?"

Genesis smiled. "Indeed, I have dispatched a text to you," she confirmed.

Bill's phone buzzed with a message notification, and he promptly checked it. "Received," he responded with a smile.

"Very well, Bill, this room is designated for your third period. Remember, lunch follows this class. I shall rendezvous with you in the cafeteria to conduct further orientation. Simply furnish the teacher with this note, and all shall be well. Until later."

"Farewell for now, Gen. I am indebted to you," Bill expressed with gratitude.

Upon entering the classroom, the teacher, Ms. Goldberg, directed her attention toward him. "Greetings. Principal Louis apprised me of your arrival. Your name is Billy, correct?"

"Yes, ma'am," Bill confirmed.

"Pleasure to make your acquaintance, Billy. I am Ms. Goldberg," she greeted warmly. "In fact, how about you introduce yourself to your fellow classmates? It would be a splendid means for everyone to become better acquainted with you."

Bill hesitated momentarily, sensing the collective gaze of his newfound peers. "Very well," he began, slightly anxious. "Greetings, one and all. I am Billy Carter."

Ms. Goldberg raised an eyebrow, her smile inviting. "An excellent start, Billy. A splendid introduction indeed. And, incidentally, welcome to our English class. Please take a seat next to James."

Bill glanced around, uncertain of James's whereabouts. "Might I inquire as to James's location?" he asked.

"James, would you be so kind as to raise your hand or indicate your whereabouts to Billy?" Ms. Goldberg requested.

James raised his hand. "Over here," he stated.

With a nod of gratitude, Bill proceeded to occupy the unoccupied seat next to James. "I extend my appreciation," he expressed as he settled in.

James acknowledged with a nod. "Certainly."

Despite the amicable exchange, Bill couldn't quite shake the feeling that James harbored some reservations about having him as a neighbor. James possessed a towering, robust frame, and Bill had heard rumors of his involvement in football, likely as a formidable presence on the field.

As the class continued, Bill couldn't help but observe that James had succumbed to slumber, and Ms. Goldberg appeared surprisingly unperturbed by this development. Bill surmised it must be due to Kentucky's fervent devotion to football.

As the class neared its conclusion, Ms. Goldberg made one final announcement. "Very well, everyone, please take your seats. I have a minor assignment for you, to be completed at your abodes. Craft a paragraph elucidating your interpretation of love. It shall not be assessed, but it shall offer me insight into your literary capabilities. Noncompliance shall result in a lunchtime disciplinary measure."

As the bell rang, signaling the end of the class, Ms. Goldberg concluded, "Adieu, all. Enjoy your repast, and I aspire to witness your punctuality on the morrow."

Bill couldn't help but perceive the latter statement as a gentle admonishment directed his way, a subtle reminder to adhere to the schedule henceforth.