Daniel
He wasn’t standing just a few rows away from where I sat, looking at me, unsure if he should go or stay.
For a second, we just stared at each other, neither of us speaking a word.
His hands balled into fists, trembling at his sides.
Then he took some steps forward and then stopped. “You’re skipping first period.”
“And so are you… clearly.” I shrugged.
He took a deep breath, then a quick laugh. “I guess I am.”
There was another silence. The air between us felt thick, like it could land on us like a rock any moment.
“What are you doing here, Jake? I finally asked, my eyes flickering around the room.
“I saw you leave, so I followed. Just wanted to make sure you’re okay.”
The words pierce through my fragile heart. Because that was Jacob Hale. No matter how many men he
