Meant to Be

Chapter Four

Later that day, I walked into English class and headed to my usual seat, the back of the last row, an empty chair to my left. I took out my English textbook, my notebook, and a pencil.

The bell rang, but before Mr. Walters could begin the lesson, a latecomer rushed in. All eyes turned to Collin as he apologized.

"I'm sorry, it's just that I'm new, and this is my first day," Collin said to Mr. Walters.

"It's okay. You can sit in any empty seat." Mr. Walters looked around the room. "Looks like we only have one left. You can sit in the back next to Miley."

Everyone watched as Collin came back to sit by me. He smiled at me as he sat down. After pulling out a notebook and a pencil and receiving a textbook from Mr. Walters, Collin was ready to go, and Mr. Walters began the lesson.

I tried my best, but couldn't focus, aware of Collin sitting beside me. Is he glad he's sitting next to me? Will we be partners for projects? Is he smart? My thoughts rambled on and on.

Suddenly, a note landed on my desk. I quickly grabbed it and hit it in my lap. I looked around before I unfolded it. The messy handwriting said:

Riley,

We meet again! Did I get the boring English teacher or what?

Collin

I smiled to myself. After glancing at Mr. Walters, who was occupied with a troubled student, I wrote back:

Actually, it's Rylee, but hey, close enough! And yeah, sorry, you did. Welcome to Sleeping in Class 101!

I tossed it back just as Mr. Walters looked up. Luckily, the note was safely hidden in Collin's hands. Mr. Walters turned to write something on the white board, and the note soon came flying back.

Sorry about that! Ha ha! You know, it might not be a bad thing I'm stuck in this class - I have you to entertain me!

I looked up, surprised. Collin grinned at me, and I blushed, then smiled back.

Maybe Collin's right, I thought. Maybe this class won't be so boring, after all.