Hitchhiking

Part 2

Callie:
There is only thirty minutes left until first block starts. June, Quinn, and I all stay at our table, other students have been filing in steadily and filling a lot of the other round tables around us. I've had my math homework out since we got here. I wasn't able to finish it last night so I'm filling out the answers as fast as I can. June and Quinn talk up a storm next to me but with one earbud in, I'm able to, for the most part, focus on what I'm doing.

Senior year has been a breeze and a rollercoaster all at the same time. Because I'm graduating early, I forced myself to take as many classes as I possibly could to fill my requirements as fast as I could. I'm pretty proud of myself for being able to do that. I filled up all my requirements freshman year through junior year, with the exception of senior year requirements that you can only fill in, well, senior year. All of this basically means I only have three core classes and a physical education class this semester while most students have much more on their plate.

Finally, I finish off my math sheet with fifteen minutes left before block one. I silently congratulate myself while tucking everything back into my backpack. I turn my attention to the environment around me. The flow of students has slowed since it's so close to when classes begin. Some are still lining up in the cafeteria to get a last-minute breakfast. A study hall is held in the cafeteria we are sitting in so Study Hall students are gradually taking their seats. As more time passes, people go to their classes.

"I'm across campus first block so I gotta run," Quinn tells us as she stands from the table.

"I'll see you after this?" June asks her.

"You know it."

Quinn leaves the cafeteria and disappears into the sea of students. June turns her attention to me. "You have English now?" she asks me

"Yeah. Study Hall?"

"Yup." She smiles. "I love it. It's nice having it first block. I get that extra hour and a half of sleep."

"An hour and twenty, to be exact," I tease.

"Same difference."

I let out a huff of laughter and shake my head gently. June side shoves me playfully. "Well, I should probably get to class. Mr. Broussard will rip me a new one if I'm late again," I chuckle

"Have fun. Text me, I'll be bored."

"If I can, I will." I smile warmly, then leave the cafeteria.

My English class is in room 520. It's pretty close to June's Study Hall, we're in the same building just a few halls apart. Since we're so close, June often texts me asking me to meet her in a bathroom in the middle. Sometimes I'm glad I cut it so close to the bell for first block because I miss out on the majority of the students rushing to class. The walk to English is an easy stroll. A couple seconds after I step into my classroom, the bell goes off. Just on time.

"Glad you could join us, Callie," Mr. Broussard greets me with his classic bearded smile.

"I wouldn't miss this class for anything," I joke, making my way to the back of the classroom where my desk is. I prefer to sit in the back corner of every class. Nobody pays attention to the kid in the back.

"I'm happy to hear that. Today's lesson greets you with open arms."

I return his smile, purposely exaggerating it. "Looking forward to it, sir."

Mr. Broussard nods and returns to his desk at the front of the room next to the door. The few students that were quietly giggling over our exchange stifle their laughter when our teacher starts attendance. Meaning he just looks at his roster, looks at the class, and marks everyone present.