The Clique: Confessions of an Upperclassman

Octavian Country Day School Monday, September 19th 8:00 AM

A short while later, after getting her drink, calming herself in the private staff bathroom, and taking another Adderall, Massie sat in her seat in English. She blew on the hot beverage, which still hadn’t cooled enough to drink, and heard the familiar crackle of the school speakers turning on.
“Good morning, Octavian Country Day School! This is the morning announcements, and I am your host- Alicia Rivera. Today I have a special guest joining me. Please welcome junior Claire Lyons!”
“Hi everyone,” Claire’s voice sounded almost too quiet against Alicia’s booming introduction.
“Now Claire,” Alicia went on. “I believe there’s some news you’d like to announce?”
“Yes, well, I just want to thank the school board for choosing me as the new head of the LGBTQIA+ Resource Society started by the Block Foundation.” The sound of Alicia clapping could be heard behind Claire’s voice as she continued. “Since it’s establishment last year, the Block family has donated over one hundred thousand dollars to helping students… such as myself.”
Massie smirked. Of course, she had written exactly what she wanted Claire to say and knew what was coming. But the hesitation in Claire’s voice and knowing that this was not what she wanted made it all the better.
“Wow, that is truly a generous gift to our school.” Alicia commended.
“Yes… and speaking of the school…” Claire paused. “I want to take this opportunity to clear the air. Recently, there has been a rumor that my family is suing OCD, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. I am very grateful to Octavian Country Day for all that they do, and also to the Blocks, and…” She gulped. “Massie Block, specifically.”
“Thank you for that information, Claire.” Alicia said seriously. “And, would you say you are endorsing Massie Block for Class President?”
Massie looked up from her beverage and made eye contact with Kristen, who looked surprised. This was not in the script, and Massie knew it was just Alicia trying to twist the knife that Massie had planted in Claire’s back.
“Yes.” Came Claire’s feeble voice over the speakers. “I want everyone to remember to… to… vote Massie.”
The sound of a chair squeaking and footsteps hurrying away from the microphone came over the speakers.
“Well, you heard it here first folks. Before we end today, I’d just like to remind all juniors that the in-school SAT exam will take place this Thursday at eight o’clock a.m. sharp in your homeroom. Don’t be late! Thank you again for listening to this morning’s announcements and have a great day! This is Alicia Rivera, signing off!”