To Uncover Yourself

Chapter 2: The Lis (Pt. 1)

Looking outside my class window, I questioned why there are students watering flowers and the like over at the garden. Is the school just unable to hire actual gardners to do it?
Then again, some yardwork in exchange for skipping class is a deal I can get under.

Back to actual matters, you might be wondering what's happened after my first day in Kermer High. Let me catch you up to speed 2 days after the arrival.

On that day back at home, mom acted as if the whole thing never happened. Although, sometimes she'd bring it up during dinner with Aleeda as an inside joke.

My next day at school, which I thought would be my last, was somewhat bearable than I'd thought it would be. Walking through the hallways and having many students of different grades look at you was quite unnerving at first but once I reached class, everyone stood up and applauded me for my couragest act that day. It felt welcoming and Ramesh even told me how I'm known as "The Brave Kid" throughout the school.

The students might adore me, but the school is not happy one bit. Especially the principal, who I just heard was the father of Erick. No wonder he wasn't expelled for his mischief at school. At least the guy is suspended for a week, I'm finally able to breathe with ease.

Many teachers, especially the old and aged, would categorize me as a bad influence to other students. At the same time the more younger teachers, like Ms. Abigail who was actually there when the incident happened, would pull me aside and quietly congratulate me for my actions. Also, the students in my class aren't aware of Sheng's whereabouts. He's been absent ever since that day.

Now to fast forward to the present.

I'm currently in class learning how to construct a proper sentence with a present participle, or something along that line. The two guys infront of me were talking a lot with each other, until they brought me into their conversation.

"Hey Lloyd, what're you gonna do after school?" said by the guy infront of me.

"We're going to that small arcade joint next to Leo's Pizza," said the guy sitting next to him.

"Wanna come?" he asked.

"I'll have to pass," I replied trying not to make so much noice while Ms. Abigail was explaining what a past participle is.

"Awhh c'mon man, It'll just be for few minut-

"You three at the back! Could you pay attention to class?!" said silently furious by the class president, Bethany Addison.

"Lay off Bethany, stop sticking your nose in other peoples' business!" replied the guy infront of me.

"What is all the ruckus back there!?" Ms. Abigail cried to the three of us at the back.
"Stay focus in class would you three? Especially you Lloyd, I'm expecting more from you." she told to us.

I was in absolute awe, I only said four words and got the most punishment.

After the scolding, Bethany smirked victoriously and pushed her glasses up a little.
Not far from where I sit, I could hear Stella giggling a small bit to herself at the situation.

Class went on until the lunch bell rang, I walked out of class to the cafeteria. Ramesh and I would usually walk together there but he's not here today, so it looks like it's just me this time.

"Lloyd! Wait up!" said a familiar voice from behind me.

I turned around to see Stella walking towards my way.

"There you are, you really can run a mile huh?" she said jokingly.

"But I wasn't even going that fast to begin with," I brought up.
"Actually you came at a right time, I don't have my lunch partner with me today so-