The skinny girl

Chapter 7

 The Balancing Act

The weeks flew by, and Emma found herself in a comfortable routine with Ethan. They studied together, shared snacks, and continued to perfect their ridiculous secret handshake, which had become a source of laughter between them. However, as the school year progressed, Emma began to feel the weight of expectations creeping in.

One afternoon, as they sat on a bench outside after school, Ethan was animatedly discussing their upcoming history project. "I'm telling you, if we do a presentation on ancient civilizations, we should totally dress up! I can be a Roman gladiator, and you can be... um, Cleopatra!" he said, striking a dramatic pose.

Emma laughed, shaking her head. "I can't picture myself in a toga! But I'm in if it means more snacks during the project."

Ethan grinned. "Snacks are non-negotiable!"

As they continued to joke and plan, Emma's phone buzzed in her pocket. She pulled it out to see a message from her mom: Don't forget about your math test next week!

"Ugh, I completely forgot about that," Emma muttered, feeling a knot form in her stomach. Math had never been her strong suit, and the thought of studying for the test made her anxious.

"What's up?" Ethan asked, noticing her change in demeanor.

"Just my mom reminding me about the math test. I really need to study, but I feel like I'm drowning in assignments right now," Emma admitted, trying to keep her tone light.

"Want to study together? I can help you with math! I'm basically a math wizard," he offered, puffing out his chest playfully.

Emma smiled, grateful for his support. "That would be awesome! But I might need a few snacks to fuel my brain."

"Snacks and math—perfect combo!" Ethan replied, winking at her.

As the week went on, Emma juggled studying for the math test, working on their history project, and keeping up with her other classes. She found herself staying up late, surrounded by textbooks and half-eaten snacks, feeling the pressure build. Despite Ethan's encouragement, she struggled to keep her spirits high.

One evening, while they were studying together at her house, Emma's frustration bubbled over. "Why is math so complicated? It feels like trying to decipher a secret code written by aliens!" she exclaimed, tossing her pencil down.

Ethan chuckled, trying to lighten the mood. "Well, if aliens are involved, I think we should call in the snack squad for backup!"

Emma couldn't help but laugh, but the stress still lingered. "I just want to do well. I feel like everyone expects me to be perfect, and it's exhausting."

Ethan's expression softened. "You don't have to be perfect, Emma. You're doing your best, and that's what matters. Plus, I think you're doing great."

"Thanks, Ethan. I just wish I could find a way to balance everything without feeling like I'm falling apart," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Maybe we can make a plan? A study schedule with built-in snack breaks?" he suggested, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

"Okay, that sounds doable! But I want extra snacks during the math sessions," Emma replied, feeling a bit lighter.

As they created their study plan, Emma felt grateful for Ethan's support. However, in the back of her mind, the pressure to perform lingered. The weekend approached, and Emma had a mix of excitement and dread as the math test loomed closer.

On Saturday, they met up for their study session at a cozy café. The smell of coffee and pastries filled the air, and Emma felt comforted by the atmosphere. They settled into a corner booth, surrounded by books and notes.