Jade's point of view
Same day
"Class, before we begin I'd like to make a little announcement.Two announcements actually," Mrs.Melbourne said getting up from her chair and revealing the bulge in her stomach.I had an idea what one of her two announcements would be,she must be taking some days off as she was expecting.
"As you all probably know by now about Bill's death,Mr.Jackson has offered his councilling services. In case some of the sensitive individuals feel the need to share their thoughts or talk with someone about this unfortunate event and it's effect on the said person,"Mrs.Melbourne said smiling slightly and looking at everyone as though expecting someone to raise his/her hand and announce he/she will be going.
Everyone shuffled uncomfortably and looked at one another.
If someone ( from the guys) actually showed any signs of wanting to consult the councellor he might as well kiss his social life goodbye because the guys would make his life a lving hell by cracking jokes, calling him sissy and what not.
I sighed and closed my book.I turned around to look at Lanie,the girl who was my biology partner but I caught Justin's eye instead,he was staring at my desk,his forehead was creased in deep thought and it took him a few seconds to realize that I was looking at him.He shifted and opened his book,ignoring me.I rolled my eyes, sure go ahead give me the cold shoulder treatment but it wouldn't be long before I uncover your secret,I thought smugly.
If I set my mind to something I mostly got it done.It was a known fact by my friends.
As though he could read my mind Justin glanced at me again and scowled and then for no apparent reason I stuck my toungue out at him.
I could've smacked myself right there and then.
He startled visibly and then gave me a weird look.Lanie chuckled.
God!Could I be any more childish? I moaned inwardly,putting my head down on my desk.
"Ms.Meadows? If you're feeling sleepy perhaps you would like to refresh yourself by washing your face?"Mrs.Melbourne said briskly.I shook my head and sat up straight.
I heard a few students snickers in the back.
"Now as for my second announcement I am going to be taking a two months leave for personal reasons and until then principal Thomas has arranged for a substitute teacher to take my place-"Mrs.Melbourne started but a few cheers erupted from the back of the class and everyone began to talk at once.
"Quiet! Silence please!"Mrs.Melbourne's voice came above the noise and everyone stopped."As I was saying,a substitute teacher has kindly offered to take my place while I'm gone,I've already gone over the syllabus with him so Mr.Larson please don't try to "dupe" him into cancelling your tests,"Mrs.Melbourne said looking at Dennis with raised eyebrows who shrugged and grinned innocently.
The guys next to him high fived him,he had talked the last substitue out of taking tests and pop quizzes for three weeks.In the eyes of slackers,he was basically a class hero for doing that.
"That concludes our class for today,please remember to submit your assignments on the scheduled date,even though I won't be present."
A hand shot up from behind and Mrs.Melbourne raised an eyebrow saying,"No Mr.Verne you may not submit it a week later,your younger brother's writing will not be accepted nor will I grade the assignments sent to me by email."
"Aw man!" a groan came from the back.
The class bell rang and everyone rushed out,I couldn't help noticing that Justin was the first to leave.
