After School Club

01| Where it All Began

It's the end now. I wish to go back to where I started and take another route. How did I end up like this? How did I get myself into such a situation?

I only wanted to be happy.

Here we go again, it's just me by myself. I've grown accustomed to this, maybe too much. Friends come and go, and deep down, I've learned they were never really there for me.

I was in my own world, feeling down and blue because I got left out by my so-called friends. And then, bam, I suddenly remembered I'm still stuck in class.

"Hey, Wil, can you provide the answer to the question on the board?" Mr. Nathaniel's voice pulled me out of my daydream.

I quickly returned to reality, realizing that time was ticking. With a small sigh, I got up from my seat, not really thinking about anything. Honestly, I don't even care if I mess up and write the wrong answer in front of everyone at this point.

As I walked up to the whiteboard, I picked up the school-provided marker pen. My hands were shaking a bit when I removed the cap. Glancing at the question briefly, I jotted down the first answer that popped into my head.

With that task completed, I returned to my seat. It felt uncomfortable, though, with all those eyes on me as I just tried to get back to my place. It was nerve-wracking. Once I settled into my chair, I promptly rested my head on the desk. A soft thud resonated in my ears, but it didn't bother me much.

I couldn't help but notice Mr. Nathaniel checking out what I was doing, which felt a bit odd, maybe even a little creepy. At the same time, I found myself wondering if Heather might have been stealing glances at me too.

I turned my head gradually, and there she was. Actually paying attention in class, unlike me. I mean, how am I supposed to concentrate when my thoughts are all over the place because of my crush sitting behind me?

She's cute, she's pretty. I'd bet her skin is as soft as cotton.

Lost in my own thoughts again, Mr. Nathaniel's voice snapped me back once more. Ugh, what does he want now? Seriously, leave me alone. Annoyed as I was, I still managed to answer. I can't risk being labeled as the troublemaker.

"Wil, I heard you're signing up for the drama competition. Anyone else from this class joining?" He asked, acting like I had all the answers.

"Just me... And a couple of Form Two students. Talking about the actors though. I'm not sure about the props team," I said, sitting up a bit straighter and trying to reply with a neutral expression, hiding my irritation behind a poker face.

He nodded. I wonder why did he even bother about it. It's not like he's connected to the drama competition. Bit of a nosy person, if you ask me.

"Well, class. Just so you know, the drama club is on the lookout for more actors. The chosen participants will represent us in the competition I was just discussing with Wil. If you're interested, find me after the class."

That's a curveball. The club must be really desperate if they're asking outsiders for help. Why didn't they approach me, though? I'm the club secretary, but it seems like they're not utilizing me to the fullest. I could've helped spread the word about this whole thing.

Honestly, forget it. I might just be too lazy for that.

I then stole another quick look at Heather, and our eyes met. Unlike before, she didn't seem focused on the class anymore. Her gaze held a sense of curiosity, almost like she wanted to strike up a conversation with me.

I turned my head away hurriedly, and the lesson resumed shortly after.

Finally, the bell rang, putting an end to the teacher's endless ramble about the upcoming exam. He let us go as quickly as possible, which brought me a bit of relief. The less thrilling part is that I still have to attend the club meeting.

Out of the corner of my eye, I spotted Heather engaged in conversation with Mr. Nathaniel outside the classroom. Frankly, I couldn't care less about their topic, but if it relates to the drama thing, I guess it means more chances to admire someone as gorgeous as her.

The classroom was now empty, with only me remaining. I could faintly hear their distant conversation as I swiftly packed up my belongings, ensuring I didn't leave anything under my desk.

Stepping out of the classroom, I noticed they were still deeply engrossed in their discussion. I walked past them, even though I didn't particularly want to. It was simply the quickest route to my meeting spot.

He halted me. I'm not entirely sure, but I think I might have unintentionally worn an irritated expression on my face - I mean, he did bother me three times today.

"Hey, leaving already? Sorry if I've been a pain," he said, sounding genuinely apologetic.

It's kind of thoughtful, really. I appreciated that. If he didn't say sorry, I might have jokingly considered canceling his Facebook account after school.

"Ah, it's fine. I've got a club meeting, sir. Will you excuse me now?" I replied, even though I kind of made up the first part of my answer.

"Wait, would you be cool taking Heather along? She wants to join the drama competition," he inquired, his request delivered with an earnestness that caught my attention.

I nodded rapidly. Chances like this don't come around often, and it felt like luck was finally on my side. I mean, having the opportunity to walk with your crush is quite an exciting experience.