A Rift Between Us

Chapter 41 - Keiko's Derision

The deafening school bell cut through the noise of scraping chairs and clattering books. Mr Dodge stood up, his arms waving wildly above his head.

"Everyone, get in a straight line near the door, please. Don't make me repeat myself."

The air crackled with excitement and anticipation as the students formed a single file. The tension could almost be felt around Alfie's body. Mr Dodge had already reached the classroom door, his finger pressed to his lips, his expression stern.

"Keep your mouths zipped when we're walking through the school. I don't want to hear anyone or anything."

Alfie raised his chin as he checked the people before him, some still whispering and hiding their faces. Mr Dodge cleared his throat, raising his chin to project his voice.

"All of year eleven will be at the library today for a final, intense revision. Make the most of it."

The message flew over everybody's head as they continued to fidget in place like restless toddlers. Alfie adjusted himself in the line, his head tilted down with a tapping foot as he mumbled.

"Come on. This is it now. Last chance to focus as hard as possible. I have to remember everything."

Keiko craned her neck, trying to peer past the crowd. She lifted her pen cap, aiming it at Alfie. The cap glanced off his shoulder, falling to the floor. Alfie's jaw clenched as his eyes followed the pen lid. His eyes rose above the door, taking a deep breath to calm himself. The tension slowly seeped out of him.

Just ignore her. She's not important right now.

Mr Dodge opened the door, his finger still pressed to his lips as he gestured for everyone to follow. They formed a single file, snaking down the empty corridor, occasionally peeking into other classrooms. The cold draft, once a mere nip, now chilled Alfie to the bone. Mr Dodge reached the top of the stairs, his finger still firmly pressed to his lips, a silent command that had been surprisingly obeyed.

Their anxiety grew with each passing moment. Alfie eventually reached the top of the stairs, his eyes locking with Keiko's, who was still below. She stuck her tongue out in a childish taunt. He ignored her and moved forward. The group halted outside the library doors, where Mr Dodge stood, his worn face illuminated by the flickering overhead light. The stale air grew more manky the longer they stood.

"Don't talk to anybody else inside!"

With a final warning, they stepped into the library. Other students flashed silly grins and gestures at the incoming 11S students, prompting a wave of nervous laughter. Mr Dodge led them to a row of tables, watching as they settled into their seats. Alfie's backpack strap slipped down his arm as he sat down. He felt a tap on his back and turned to see Mr Dodge staring at him with a wooden expression.

"No. You follow me."