Journey

08: Neglect (H)

The afternoon sun streams through the classroom window, casting a warm glow that matches the contentment blooming within me.

It's been a while since I've felt this light, this carefree. Ever since Omar and I made up, there's been a shift - a subtle but significant change in our relationship. It's like we're slowly finding our way back to each other, rebuilding the bond that was strained by arguments and misunderstandings.

Lost in my happy headspace, I barely register the lesson my teacher is going through. Instead, I find myself doodling absentmindedly in the margins of my notebook, my thoughts drifting to moments shared with Omar, the laughter we once shared, and the simple joy of having a sibling to confide in.

"Hello?! Earth to Hussaiba! Are you even in there anymore, girl?" My friend's voice cuts through my thoughts, bringing me back to reality with a jolt.

"Oh, sorry. I just got a little bit lost in thought, I guess..." I reply with a sheepish smile, trying to shake off the lingering daydreams.

"Yeah, no kidding. Math class ended 5 minutes ago." Jessica replies with a giggle, clearly enjoying teasing me in this vulnerable state. She flicks back her short curly black hair, revealing the dozens of freckles hoarding the sides of her cheeks; her green eyes glimmered in the daylight, representing the abundance of sarcasm she held within.

"Were you thinkin' about someone special, hm? You couldn't have been *that* distracted if it were to be anythin' else." She raises an eyebrow at me suggestively and smirks mischievously, immediately giving me a clear implication of what she was trying to say.

"Ew, hell no. That's not it at all," I reply to her, rolling my eyes with annoyance tinged to my voice, "I was just thinking about my brother. He woke up from his coma a few days ago, and then... Actually, a lot of stuff happened... but, we're on great terms again!"

"Ooh! Really? Seriously? Omar woke up? That's fantastic news! Good for you, girl! No wonder why you're so chipper today!" Jess nudges my shoulder gently, although her version of 'gentle' seems to pack quite a punch. I wince slightly but respond with equal enthusiasm, determined to match her energy.

"Of course you'd be happy, Jess. I know you liked-"

"Shut up!" She tries to shout, but her voice is weak and quiet; a red tint appears on her cheeks, and I could see her expression shift instantly to some sort of embarassment. Her form quivers in shyness, and she looks down to try and avoid eye contact with me.

"Heh. Struck a nerve, did I?" I ask, her reaction just giving me all the more reason to be even more frisky than before. "Want me to set you up with him? Y'know, I'm his little sister, so-"

I'm quickly interrupted by the teacher that walks into the classroom who, upon seeing us, immediately wore a stern expression on his face and spoke to us in a shrill voice. "Hussaiba Akhtar, Jessica McBarlowe. I believe your math class should've ended quite a bit ago?"

"Y-Yes, sir! We were just about to leave," Jess answered, tinges of embarassment still clearly dawdling in her voice, "we were just packing some things."

The teacher's expression softens slightly, though his tone remains stern. "Good. Remember to manage your time wisely, girls. Class schedules are there for a reason."

We both nod in understanding, eager to leave the classroom and avoid any further lecturing. I swiftly shove my math book and stationery pouch back in my bag, then stand up and fling the bag over my shoulder, signaling to Jess that it was time to go.

As we make our way out, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of regret for getting carried away with our conversation. Time management is indeed crucial, especially with the brand new school term just beginning.