The Mask Back On

"Alright, see you later," I mumbled, leaving the classroom, my earlier distress still weighing on me.

Walking back home in a drowsy state, I fumbled for my phone and dialed Eman's number. He answered, "Hey Dionis, what's up?"

"You Darjan and I are visiting Adem. Bring your pistols with you; I'll give Adem a call right now," I instructed him.

"Aight," Eman replied, his voice tinged with excitement, "I'll come by your place and scoop you up in an hour."

"No, my parents are home, just meet me at Ipoz in an hour." I suggested before ending the call.

Upon returning home, I put on my best façade, greeting my parents and brother with an high-spirited smile, concealing the heartbreak that had been gnawing at me. With acted cheerfulness, I made a simple sandwich. Slumping into my cozy chair in my room, I casually tossed my backpack onto the floor and sank into my computer chair, watching YouTube while eating.