We Should've Left It Alone

3

Ezekiel

I quickly walked through the cacophonous hallways, the chatter of the surrounding students feeling overwhelming. The small space between me and others hustling to their next classes seemed to shrink, a student bumping into me here and there. I felt my heart start to race, and my breathing quicken as everything got louder.

Soon, I made it out of the cluster and rushed down a nearly empty hallway, taking the long way to my science class. My eyes darted around, looking at the little imperfections and cracks in the bright, white brick walls, and the glossy grey tile floor. Slowly, I began to get lost, focusing on the cracks everywhere while my feet guided me to my next class. After a series of turns and long hallways, I arrived to my destination, ducking into the classroom.

The ear-splitting sound of the bell rang through my ears as I passed the threshold of the room, causing me to flinch forcibly, squeezing my eyes shut for a moment. The bell stopped after a few seconds, and I sighed, trying to ignore the snickers from classmates. The classroom was set up very weirdly today; it was set up like a crime scene with no desks in sight other than Mx. Rodgers desk. My eyes quickly darted around after examining the classroom, searching for Mordecai, who I quickly found, and walked towards, clutching the straps of my backpack.

Hey, you ok? Mordecai asked quietly as I stood beside them.

Yeah, its just really loud, I mumbled looking around the room, analyzing the makeshift crime scene, before adverting my gaze to my feet.

Do you want to use my earb-

Good morning class, today we will be using everything you have learned in my class so far to determine how the victim of this crime scene has died. Yes, I am aware that this is not a crime investigation class, but it is crutial that all of you know how to apply your scientific knowledge and skills to real world situations. You will be working with a partner, so go ahead and choose your partner, and if there is an odd amount of students present today, the student without a group can choose to work alone, join a group, or work with me. There is no incorrect or correct answer to how this victim has died, but instead, we will use this activity today to build on our knowledge in a discussion tomorrow. Mx. Rodgers announced to the class, and the students began whispering among theirselves as the teacher talked.

I looked at Mordecai, who nodded to me, letting me know that we could be partners without adding to the din of voices as students found their partners.

Ezekiel, Mx. Rodgers spoke. Come see please.

Students began snickering as I walked up to their desk, shuffling my feet.

Yes? I asked quietly, picking at the threads of my gloves.

I will give you the opportunity to work alone if you wish, and if you need to step out at any time, please let me know before you leave the room, and let me know if you are going anywhere. They spoke softly, easing my nervousness. I was very thankful that they were aware and respectful of my sensitivities, being the kindest teacher to me.

Thank you, I smiled a little, trying to avoid eye contact. If I leave, would it be possible for me to bring Mordecai with me? Mx. Rodgers thought for a second, and looked back to Mordecai, who was getting out a notebook and a pencil from their bag.

Of course, just make sure to not leave campus.

I nodded, and went back to Mordecai, who gave me a quizical look. I waved my hand a little, showing them it was nothing of concern.

Want to get started? I grabbed some gloves for us from the counter, Mordecai signed, holding a notebook and pencil in one hand and two pairs of blue, latex gloves in the other.