(Extra)ordinary

Chapter 36

Chapter 36

"So how was your checkup yesterday?" Dakota asked as I met him by the lockers in the school hallway.

"Horrific." I stated. "I hate needles so much, you know?"

He chuckled. "Figures."

I turned around a slap his arm. "Shut up. C'mon let's get to class. I don't wanna get a late pass for detention."

"Whatever you say, my lady."

I have him a smug smile and proceeded to homeroom. While making my way to my seat, I saw that Adam was already in his. He was staring into space.

I settled down my bag and cautiously sat down in my seat. I wondered if Adam was feeling happy, sad or angry today, because for a person with schizophrenia, it depends a lot of the mood.

I counted to ten in my head. Should I talk to him? Should I show care for him? Should I just push what he had done aside and start over with him again as friends?

I decided to just push all those thoughts away and focus on the situation at hand. I made up my mind.

"Hey Adam." I greeted, not wanting to sound too cheerful.

He snapped out of his daydream to look at me. "Oh, hi Anna."

That went well, I thought. So far so good. Now, I needed a topic to talk about.

"How was the math test yesterday?" I asked. I secretly praised myself for being able to think on my feet.

"It was pretty difficult."

"Oh."

An awkward a silence settled between us. I started wondering if I should just stop the conversation or continue it.

"So," he started instead, turning to face me. "I'm really sorry about last Saturday. I didn't mean it. It was so foolish on my part."

I broke eye contact, unsure of what to feel. Amber was alright now, but will she forgive him?

"Well, I... Know you didn't mean it. Amber is alright now, so I think I'll let it rest."

"Thank you, Anna. So I'm guessing that Dakota had told you about my...condition?"

My wavering eyes met his serious ones. "Yeah."

Hurt flashed across his strong features.

"But it doesn't change my impression of you, Adam. You'll always be the happy and easy going guy I met years ago. I know you've been through a lot, and if you ever need help, please don't hesitate to ask." I added quickly.

Adam looked up and studied my face for a moment. I kept a strong look, even though my heart and mind were like jelly, unstable and afraid.

"Well, I'm not sure. Thanks anyway. I'm so unpredictable that Dakota gives up on me sometimes. I don't wanna pressure you, or even hurt you, if it goes to that extent," he replied slowly.

"It's okay. But if you ever need me, just give me a call," I said with a small smile. A smile mirrored on his face.

********

I got changed for gym, then entered the gym hall to realise that it was empty. I panicked and started looking around frantically for familiar faces. Suddenly, I heard someone shouting my name.

I whipped around, trying to find the source. My eyes landed on Naya, of all people.

"We're going to run track today. You'd better hurry up or we'll be late." She barked from the other end of the hallway.