SUBJECTBALLS (DISCONTINUED)

One More Time

"Art! I-"

"I thought you were a decent person, Maths. I thought you were the only decent person here. But you're not who I thought you were. Do you know how much courage it took me to confess to you? All it's taken you to ruin it is an overreaction over one minor inconvenience." Art growled, every word tearing a hole into Maths' stomach.

"Art, please, just let me explain. If Drama posted that video, everybody would know, and-"

"Well, it doesn't matter whether Drama posts that video or not, because it's fake news, anyway." Art interrupted, her sadness dissipating and quickly becoming anger.

The whole crowd was tense. Even Drama didn't utter a word as Maths still held her there. They were sure there were worms wriggling in their belly.

"What do you mean?" Maths said, gulping nervously. Their nose began to tingle, and their eyes started to sting.

"I mean, we're over."

"But- please! Just let me explain!"

"Explain then." Art replied dully.

"Well, what happened was-" Maths began, but, barely a word into their sentence, Art ran off, her sobbing audible for several moments until it faded into the distance.

Maths stared after her, before releasing Drama from their grip.

"I'll be back for you later." Maths growled.

"Eek." Drama jibed, but Maths couldn't find the energy to care.

"If she gets hurt, it's your fault." Maths muttered. Drama opened her mouth for a snarky remark, but before she could say another word, they pushed aside two members of the crowd, running after Art.

The crowd members shuffled off to their respective classrooms, whispering and muttering.

Maths had never felt more alone as they descended the stairs that Art had rushed down. No matter what situation they were in, no matter how rowdy their class had been, no matter how many times English and Drama had insulted and condescended them, there was one thing that was consistent; Art was always there. And that was enough for them. But now she wasn't there. They had always gone to her for advice, or a laugh, or some simple words of comfort. Even though they were in the same building, she felt as far away as the stars. They didn't realise they were crying until they reached a window, and saw the reflection of the tears streaking down their face. They simply walked on.

How long had they been together? About two minutes? Maths didn't laugh at their own imaginary joke. It just reminded them of those seconds of comfort and bliss. That was a feeling they felt they would never have again. They would trade their whole life just to relive that moment, one more time.