Words. He never says much of them. In fact, I don't think I've ever even heard his voice. In class he doesn't raise his hand. Instead, he focused his eyes anywhere but on the teacher. Whether it be the window, or the clock, or his paper, or just a blank space on the wall. He fixes his eyes anywhere but the front of the room. Mr. Anderson seems to understand his silent plea not to be called on. As for me, it seems every time my eyes stray from the board I am asked to answer a question. He's odd, between his never-combed dark hair and endless collection of band tees- he always seems to stand out. I'm not saying he is unattractive, don't get me wrong, he is really cute, just- different. Dark, even. Now hold up, he isn't your typical leather-jacketed and motorcycle riding bad boy. He's not like that at all. And, no, he's not "emo". He's not ripped-jean-clad with jet black shaggy hair, face piercings, and guyliner. He's nothing like I've seen before. Right now, he's quietly drumming his fingers along to a melody only he can hear.
Mr. Anderson is currently droning on about the "exciting" creation of atoms. Devin, the residential homophobic, God-loving, teacher-challenging jerk is trying to convince Mr. A that the Big Bang theory is wrong because "the bible says"... you get my point. Chloe, a faker-than-Barbie blonde who is sporting a new nose that her daddy bought her is stinking up the room from the smell of the polish she is painting her nails with. And me? I'm just sitting here taking in the many questionable sights that Brookshire High School has to offer. Like the couple making out in the hallway that my seat by the door has given me a clear view to. Oh, high school. We anticipate the moment we get here all our young lives. Expecting everyone to break out into song whenever a conflict arises, just like they do in High School Musical. Expecting the jocks and cheerleaders to accept the freaks and geeks like us. The day Devin Crushaw befriends someone like me will be the day we all accomplish world peace. In other words? Never.
"It's that time of year, folks. The time you have all waited for your entire High School career," Mr. Anderson says to the class. He gets a series of agitated grunts and a few eye rolls in response. Ignoring our lack of enthusiasm, he continues. "The Junior Class Ocean Exploration Field Trip. All of you are expected to attend. Those of you who chose not to will be assigned a packet of worksheets and quizzes that must be completed by the day we return from our trip." He receives more groans for this bit of information.
The Ocean Exploration Field Trip is one that the Junior class takes each year. Twelve hours spent on a bus with your entire class, then five days and six nights on the all allusive Hilton Head Island in South Carolina. Why travel so far for an oceanography lesson? Some people think of it as the Junior Vacation rather than the Junior Field Trip. Sounds great, right? Why is everyone moaning and groaning? Truth is, although it is a nice break and get away before the big, scary and almighty SATs, we still have to attend class for four hours each day. Also- this trip is known as a friendship wrecker. Nobody knows why, but the all-mystical Hilton Head Island seems to bring a lot of drama and rocky waters to relationships.
"This year we will be staying in waterside condos instead of a hotel because of gracious donations from our district and PTA. You will room with the group of boys and girls I assign you, but we will have a chaperone in each room so don't plan on any funny business," the teacher says, gathering a bunch of envelopes in his arms.
"Awww!" Chloe fake pouts with a giggle, sending a wink towards Devin. Excuse me while I throw up a little. A grin comes to Devin's face, but then quickly disappears as Mr. Anderson hands him an envelope.
"On the cover of each of these envelopes is a list of group assignments. Inside are forms for you and your legal guardian to fill out, as well as a packet of worksheets that you will need to pack and bring with you for our trip. We leave Wednesday. That's two days from now, folks. We've given you plenty of warning and guidelines for this trip throughout the year so please come at 4AM on Wednesday completely prepared. Any questions?" Mr. Anderson says to the class as he continues passing out envelopes.
