Feelings at Bay

Chapter 12

The night dragged on, with several students waking up shortly after midnight, struggling to get back to sleep. Excitement overwhelmed them. Less than ten hours to go!

School work was never going to get done today. Hell, work in general wasn't going to happen. The entire town was focused on only one thing. Elders and children alike buzzed in anticipation of tonight. There wasn't a slight chance of rain; everything was finally ready to make tonight unforgettable.

The final classes were in session. Everyone was on the edge, waiting for the closing whistle. Even the teachers didn't put any effort into today; the maximum being just busywork. This of course, wasn't even noticed by the kids, being already preoccupied.

"We've got a few minutes left; I'll make this quick," Their teacher said, "Tonight, when you're all there. I want you on your best behavior. The entire town's pitched in this year to make the Festival extraordinary. Don't stay up for too long, come in every now and then and say hi, and most importantly be safe out there. Security has been revved up since last year, so please just try to stay out of their way."

The class gave their halfhearted understanding and acknowledgement.

"Why do I even bother with you guys?"

RIIIIIING.

"Alright; get lost. I'll see you all later."

The classroom was already empty. She couldn't help but laugh to herself. She was like that when she was their age after all. Looking at the mess they left, she sighed, turned the lights off, shut the door, locked, and made her way down the hall; it was the end of the semester.

"Aaah!"

"You guys gave me a little heart attack! Well, at least you two didn't collide into me."

"Sorry about that." Jordan apologized.

"We'll be more careful." Julianna added.

She sighed as the girls continued at full speed. She didn't have the energy to care; it's been a long term.

. . .

The roses were in full bloom. As Amy clutched the bouquet in her hand, she watched as Mark led her past the whispering mass of onlookers. He had chosen to make a show out of it; she didn't care at all.

The walk over to where the Festival was taking place consisted of idle chatter and more flattering. As they passed what should be the marketplace, they saw a crowd already forming. Early goers made extra progress this year round.

The bells from the old cathedral began to ring across town. The time was approaching speedily.

Looking around, they almost didn't recognize their surroundings. Where once stood stalls and tents was now the location of carnival booths and games. Tickets were being sold, prizes exchanged, and a DJ booth was almost ready.

"Isn't that John?" Amy pointed to a student messing with wires.

The couple walked over to him. Before they could call out, he jumped up and faced the duo.

"Amy, Mark. How is it going?"

"We just got here. How long have you been here?" Amy asked.

By some miracle, he was able to speak calmly and confidently to her.

"Oh, some of us got here early with the Principal. I think Jordan and Julianna are on their way now, seeing that you're both here."

"Any sigh of Emily?" Mark asked.

"Haven't seen her. I thought she was with you guys..."

"Huh, weird." He said, sounding distracted.