The Essay

Ch. 2

AVERY:

I opened my eyes to the sunlight peeking through the curtains, but I felt too lazy to get out of bed. I just wanted to lay there and enjoy the comfort of my bed for a little longer.

And then I remembered Mrs. Sullivan was announcing the essay topic today.

The junior essay was a sensation across school, but nobody in the grades above were allowed to share the topic.

Anxiety gnawed at me as I wondered what the topic of the essay could be, but I knew that I had to face it soon.

Apparently, it was a difficult, but fun essay to write.

Mrs. Sullivan was known for being a hard grader, but the upcoming essay was going to be the ultimate test of our writing abilities.

I reluctantly dragged myself out of bed, my mind still consumed by the thought of the essay.

I look through my window, and I see Jayden putting on a shirt.

He catches sight of me, greets me with a wave, and can't help but laugh at the sight of my less than ideal morning appearance.

As I stare at myself in my vanity mirror, I can't help but notice how completely and utterly disgusting I look and feel.

I sit at my vanity, just looking, but I realize I am going to be late.

No matter what, I still have to do my entire routine.

I'm so tired of feeling like I have to look perfect all the time. It's like I'm constantly under a microscope. I wish I could just be myself and not care so much about my appearance.

After finishing my hair and makeup, I put on a mini skirt and a baby tee.

Doing my makeup and putting on a cute outfit did make me feel a bit better, but the thought of having to do this every day makes me feel overwhelmed.

I know that texting Hunter would make me feel better.

Today 7:24 am

AVERY: hey you know we find out the essay prompt today??

HUNTER: Ohh yeah I forgot

AVERY: ik i'm so excited, kinda nervous idk why. but can u take me to school

HUNTER: u know i'm actually going in early to check out a book from the library, tomorrow i promise ily

AVERY: oh ok, it's fine i'll ask jayden

HUNTER: Um ok

AVERY: what?

HUNTER: Nothing, see you at school

AVERY: cya!

Today 7:26 am

AVERY: ik it's short notice but can you give me a ride to school i'm sorry

JAYDEN: yes i can it's no issue

AVERY: thank u ur a lifesaver

JAYDEN: ur welcome ;)

AVERY: i'll be outside in 5

I grab my laptop off of my desk and put it in my backpack.

I hurried downstairs, I grabbed a protein bar, said goodbye to my mom, and rushed out.