A Rift Between Us

Chapter 9 - He Must Never Know

He paused as Alfie stood aimlessly at the front of the class. Alfie surveyed his face, unsure of what to do.

"What are you doing up here?" Mr Dodge repeatedly wiped his hand, the prickling sensation still present. "Go and sit down. You two boys as well."

Mr Dodge paced around his desk before collapsing into his chair like a ton of bricks. He ran his fingers through his hair, his eyes darting around the room as he struggled to remember something. Alfie continued towards his seat, head down to avoid everyone's stares. Keiko watched him with a grin. Her foot shot out from under the desk, tripping him just before he could sit.

His body staggered. A sharp sound, like a popped balloon, filled the air as his palms hit the table, breaking his fall. Keiko giggled softly. He exhaled deeply, trying to calm his nerves. Alfie sat down and tucked his chair under the table. His hands swiped down his sleeves, flattening the worst creases. Keiko slid the novel over to him, the scratching sound trailing as it moved. He studied it carefully, before dragging it nearer to his body. An unusual bulge in the centre gave the cover a convex shape, pressing into his palm.

That's weird, why is it like that?

His eyes locked onto an open gap halfway through the pages, as if something was stuck there. His brunet hair gently swayed in the breeze from the fanning pages. Nestled in the centre was a small, brown booklet, its leathery surface devoid of any words or features.

What's this? It must be hers. Let's see what's in it.

His hand slithered towards it, flat and slow, trying to bypass her attention. Keiko's jaw dropped as she realised her mistake. She lashed out, grabbing the book from Alfie. His hand clenched hard, preventing her from taking it. He pulled away, shielding his face with his other arm. Heads spun around to catch the scuffle as it unfolded. The booklet flew out of the novel, somersaulting before slapping onto the floor. Keiko didn't notice, too busy in her quest to grab the book.

"Gimme that!"

A low-pitched screech filled the air as Alfie pulled his chair back, desperately trying to avoid Keiko's wild swings as they perilously came close to his glasses.

"Hey, relax...oww!"

She edged closer, invading his personal space as she fiercely tried to snatch it from his hand. Her elbow dug into his thigh as she clambered over him. Many students laughed at the disorderly scene. Mr Dodge surged up from his seat, raising his voice.

"Can you two stop messing around in my class? Unbelievable."

The student ahead of them picked up the diary, holding it out to Alfie who was busy fending off Keiko's advances.

"That's mine."

She pulled away from Alfie, plucking her diary from the student's hand. The student cast her a pointed glance, which she returned with equal intensity. She adjusted her uniform and secured the diary in her handbag. Mr Dodge stood at the front, shocked and angry, his eyes switching back and forth between Alfie and Keiko.

"It's ridiculous how I have to deal with stupidity like this day in and day out. Furthermore, Alfie, sit at the front. I need to keep a closer eye on you."

Alfie's eyes lit up, a small smile forming on his face. He stood up, grabbed his backpack, and gave Keiko a triumphant look as he moved away. She lowered her head, crossed her arms, and snarled as he relocated.

Why does he look so happy about moving? Doesn't he want me around?