The Competition

Yelena

-Forward to Tuesday, three weeks later-

It's been three weeks since the accident and I haven't spoken to Natalia or Carson. They've ignored and avoided me, pretending that nothing has happened. Their behavior feels like a constant reminder that something has changed, that something is irreparably broken. At least everything was okay with Viktor

Today, during lunch, I decide not to sit at my usual place. The thought of being surrounded by people pretending that everything is normal is too much to bear. Instead, I head to the lab earlier than usual, hoping to find some solace in the quiet, sterile environment.

As I push open the lab door, I freeze. There, in the dim light, I see Viktor and Sofia, their bodies entwined in a way that leaves no doubt as to what they're doing. My heart shatters, each piece falling away with the realization that he knows the truth and is trying to get even with me. Sofia doesn't notice my presence, but Viktor's eyes meet mine for a fleeting second. There's a mixture of anger and pain in his gaze, and I can't help but feel like the ground is slipping away from underneath me.

I quietly slip out of the lab, my mind a whirlwind of emotions. I don't know how long I stand in the hallway, trying to calm my breathing and collect my thoughts. When I finally return to the lab, Professor Lambert is already there, ready to make an announcement.

"Today we have an exciting opportunity," Professor Albert begins, his voice full of excitement. "The science fair is upon us, and this time you will be working alone."

The words barely register in my head. All I can think about is Viktor and Sofia, the betrayal and the pain. The class continues around me, but I feel like I'm in a bubble, disconnected from everything and everyone. After lab, my day continues with art. Usually it's a place where I can lose myself in creativity, but today even that feels hollow. I try to focus on my painting, but my mind keeps drifting back to the lab, to Viktor and Sofia. Finally, it's time for English. I sit alone, my usual friends nowhere to be seen. The classroom feels like a cold, empty space, and I can't help but notice Viktor, Carson, and Natalia across the room. Natalia and other students had to join our group because their professor was sick. They're laughing and talking and having fun as if nothing has changed. As if I didn't exist.

The day drags on, every minute feels like an hour. By the time the last bell rings, I'm exhausted, emotionally drained from trying to hold it together. I walk out of the school, my steps heavy and my heart even heavier. I don't know how much longer I can keep doing this, pretending that everything is okay when it clearly isn't.