Extra Credit+ (ON HOLD)

Chapter 2

"So....Mr. Hessling." I said, trying to ease the "uncomfortableness" that I was experiencing.

"You heard what I was saying earlier about different learning styles, correct?" he confirmed.

"Yeah, I heard it.  But, I can assure you ,Mr. Hessling, that I am doing FINE in this class.  I don't need to switch-out of this class.  I don't need extra help." I explained, adding a sour coating of irritation to my voice that I didn't notice until after I said it.

"Then, what do you need, honey?" he asked, leaning in closer to me.

"Just...some extra credit I guess.  I can get it back to you by the end of the week." I suggested.

"How much do you need?  There's a lot that I have to offer." he informed.

"I'm sure you do.  Well, I can take about two or three worksheets.  I have a project that I'm working on and I'm swamped with homework this week."

"Oh..." he sighed, seeming a tad-bit disappointed, "so you wouldn't have much time to come to me after school I see."  I watched him tap is stubbly chin as he thought of a solution.  "What is the project for?"

"Ms. Lym for math.  It's pretty extensive.  I need all the time and help that I can get." I sighed.

"MATH!  Perfect!  You can come after school and I can help you with algebra and your project!  How does that sound?" he exclaimed.  He might as well have yelled "EUREKA!"

"Umm...well, I'm not sure about that.  I'd rather just work on it at home.  Again, I need all the time and help I can get, but I think that I would be the best helper for myself." I reinerated.

"Gabriella," he acknowledged, scooting closer too me discreetly in his swivel chair, "kids learn in different ways.  Some need some extra and more...QUALITY time with their instructor.  One-on-one time, if you please.  That's what you need.  I've seen your kind before, always in DENIAL.  You've got a bad case of it.  And, let me tell you, sweetheart, the Nile is not just a river in Africa.  You need my help.  Just admit it now.  We'll get really up-close-and-personal, really get deep into it, penetrate the source.  Do you know what I mean?"

"Y-y-yeah, I know.  But, really, I must get to class.  So, if I could get that pass please?" I requested, easing my way up and out of the plastic chair.

"Sure thing!" he replied.  He leaped out of his spinning chair and reached for a bright yellow pad of disposable late passes.  I folded my arms across my chest, tossed my hair with my head to hide my face from him, and held my binders, notebooks, and other class supplies by my waist, so as NOT to give him any ideas.  There was just something so strange about his demeanor these past few minutes.  First, the creepy smiles. Next, the gradual movement towards me, like that of a cheetah closing in on its prey. Then, the slightly suggestive word choice.  Well, at least it was suggestive if you have a dirty mind like I, a hormone-crazed 13 1/2-year-old, do.

I snatched the pass from his hand and speed-walked towards the door.  I could feel his death beams of laser vision burning holes through my back with every step that I took.   It was like he was God, all-seeing and all-knowing.

Just as I was about to exit and turn the corner, he spoke again.

"I'll just give your mother a call to see if we can arrange some sort of schedule."  He paused before commenting, "You're a bright kid you know.  Got lots of spunk and potential."

I nodded as I continued to speed-walk away without turning back around.