Hiding Moon

Part 3

"A Glimmer of Hope"

I stood in the Leader's Office, the paper trembling in my hands. The Chess Club had always been my dream, and now, it seemed like I had my second chance.

Clyde's cold demeanor confused me, but I pushed all the thoughts aside, focusing on the opportunity.

"Go ahead, sign it," Clyde said, his voice devoid of warmth.

I quickly scribbled my name on the dotted line, I can hear my heart beating and racing with excitement.

"Thank you, Clyde," I said, trying to catch his eye, but he was already turning away, heading towards the door.

"Don't thank me," he replied without looking back.

"Just don't mess it up this time." He added.

My joy was momentarily dampened by his words, but I shook it off. I had been given a chance, and I wasn't going to let anything ruin it. I carefully placed the signed paper on the Leader's desk and followed Clyde out of the office.

As we walked down the hallway, the silence between us was thick and uncomfortable. I stole glances at Clyde, trying to read his expression, but his face was an unreadable mask.

"Why are you being so harsh?" I finally asked, unable to bear the silence any longer.

Clyde stopped abruptly and turned to face me. "Do you really not know?" he asked, his eyes boring into mine.

I shook my head, feeling a knot of anxiety form in my stomach. "No, I don't."

Clyde sighed and rubbed the bridge of his nose. "Look, Sheilah, you have a lot of potential. But your past mistakes... they have consequences. I'm giving you another chance because I believe you can turn things around. But if you mess up again, there won't be any more chances."

I just nodded, understanding the gravity of his words. "I won't let you down," I promised.

Clyde didn't respond, just nodded curtly before continuing down the hall. I followed, my mind racing with thoughts of how I would prove myself worthy of this second chance.