The Community Service Project

Chapter 8: Math Struggles

I'm a bit nervous for school today. I don't know how Matthew is going to react after everything yesterday. Will he even acknowledge me?

"You ready for math class?" Izzy asks.

"I guess." I'm too stressed. I haven't seen Matthew yet. And plus we're getting our grades back from our AP calc test that we took the other day, which I do not think I did well on. I usually have a good feeling after I take tests, kind of like a relieved feeling, but once I turned that test in, that feeling was not there.

"Okay I will be passing back your test scores." Mrs. Norberry states as she digs through a pile of tests.

Once she gets to me, she hands me my test back side down and gives me a disapproving look. I get a feeling like there's a pit in my stomach. I want to start crying as I check my test and see I scored a C. I begin to feel my eyes water but I quickly shake the tears off because crying in front of my class is not something I want to do.

I can see from the corner of my eye, Izzy looking over at me so we can mouth whisper what we got to each other. This has never happened to me before. I mean sure I've scored below an A before but never a C. My parents are going to kill me. The last thing I want to do is disappoint them....

Once the bell rings, I quickly get my things together so I can run off to the bathroom and cry. I know it may seem like I am making a big deal, but it is a big deal for me.

"Not so fast Ms. Fosset." Mrs. Norberry begins. I then turn around and give her a questioning look.

"A word." She says, signaling for me to come over to her desk.

"Is everything alright with you Ellie? You are one of the top students in my class so I myself was a little surprised when I was grading your test and saw that you got a C. This has never happened to you before, if other things in your life are taking priority or getting in the way, I suggest you put your focus back on to school." She says.

"Yes, I've just been a little stressed lately. I'll get my head back in the game. Thank you." I say.

"Alright that's good to hear." She replies.

Throughout the day, I couldn't stop thinking about my grade on my math test. Well more specifically, what my parents will think of my grade. I want to just get it over with and call them now, but we're not allowed to go on our phones while school is in session.

Finally when I hear the last bell of the day I am relieved. School is over. I head to my locker while I feel a tap on my shoulder.

"Boo." A familiar voice says from behind. I turn around to see that it is Matthew.

"Oh hey." I say.

"What's up?" He asks, concern evident in his voice. I can't help but break down immediately as I tell him. He wraps his arms around me for comfort.

"How about we watch a movie or something at my house?" He suggests. I don't know what has gotten into me because usually I would just have gone home but I agreed. Plus it's time I get to spend with Matthew so I'm not complaining.

When we finally arrive at his house, I notice how nice it is.

"Oh before I open the door, don't freak out but I have a dog. You're good with dogs right?" He says as he turns around to tell me, with his hands on the key knob.

"Yes totally." I reply.

Once he opens the door, his dog rushes towards him.

"This is Peanut." He says. "Don't worry, he doesn't bite."