Wednesday brought its own tension. Marvin was quiet at first, his storm brewing beneath the surface. I noticed him watching from a distance, Jacinta perched on his arm like a shadow. I could feel the anticipation, the simmering anger, but I refused to give him the satisfaction of fear. Lena stayed close, whispering jokes and commentary to distract me.
Other students’ drama continued to unfold. A fight in math class erupted when two girls argued over a group project. I watched quietly, Lena whispering, “Everyone has battles. Some are just louder than others.”
By the time I walked home, Mom was outside watering her plants, glowing in the late afternoon sun. I smiled faintly. Even on chaotic days, life could have moments of warmth.
Thursday brought a minor relief: a leadership meeting for
