The problem with school assignments—
was that teachers always seemed to believe they built character.
Especially when they involved group work.
Wednesday morning began quietly enough.
That lasted until Mrs. Harper stood at the front of the classroom with a stack of papers in her hands.
“Today,” she announced, “you’ll be working in pairs on your history presentations.”
A ripple of conversation spread across the room.
Jason leaned toward Ryan.
“If we get paired together, I’m doing the talking.”
Ryan didn’t even look up.
“I know. That’s what worries me.”
Mrs. Harper began reading the names.
“Emily and Jason.”
Emily smiled.
“This should be fun.”
Ryan muttered, “For who?”
“Ryan and Sophie.”
Ryan gave a soft nod of acceptance.
Then came the next pair.
“Noah and Lily.”
For a m
