"I’m okay," she said, picking up her pace just a little, a subtle shift that immediately raised a banner of concern in my mind. What could possibly be bothering her?
I found myself at a complete loss, trying to decipher Rachel's mood. Had she really become angry, or was it just my imagination playing tricks on me? The uncertainty gnawed at me. If she was upset, what could have triggered it? I felt a mix of curiosity and worry brewing within me. Just a short while ago, I had approached my teacher to report that I finished helping the second-graders. She smiled at me, commending my efforts and suggesting I take some time to relax before our noon meeting. My teacher's praise was a bright spot, but it didn’t alleviate the cloud of unease settling over me when I thought about Rachel.
Returnin
