Sprawl

Chapter Two: the Rebel

I shut the textbook and looked over at Archer. I was surprised to see a pained expression on his face. He looked as if he was trying to hold back tears.

“Is there anything wrong?” I asked.

“No.” his response was sharp and pained.

The bell rang signaling and he shot up out of his seat and practically ran from the room. I looked after him, only to have my eyes locked onto the caramel pair that belonged to none other than Nicholas.

“Hello Olivia."

I smiled at him, and tried to hide the blush that spread rapidly across my face.

"Are you excited for the Bonfire on Day Ten?" He asked.

"Um, well, yes I suppose I, well, a bit I guess..." I had entirely forgotten about the Bonfire. Or, as it is politely known as the Fertility Function. I must pick out my dress.

“Well, I'll see you there. Some of us are going to meet beforehand for games and such. Come join us if you have the time.” He turned around on his heels and walked out of the room.

I ran from the classroom happily, smiling to myself, but suddenly stopped when I heard an odd sound. I peeked around the corner and I saw that the noise was coming from the boy’s washroom. I made sure no one was looking before approaching the door to the bathroom. Through the slight crack betwen the door and its frame I managed to see Archer, sobbing with his teeth bared, holding back a cry. His face was entirely wet, and he was kicking the trash can. He was ripping paper into what looked like miniscule confetti.

I stared aghast at him as I realized it was paper from the textbook we had been reading together earlier. Destroying school property that also happened to be a book about the achievements of the Compound! This was an act of rebellion! A gasp escaped my lips. His head snapped towards the door suddenly, his eyes red and angered, boring holes into mine.

“Olivia.” His speech was slightly slurred, but my name was clear.

My eyes went wide, and I fled. I ran, tripping slightly as I went out of the school and all the way back to my home.