A soft voice calms my nerves and helps me control my trembling fingers.
My mother is in the office with Ms. Anderson while I’m joined outside by Eric.
“Your eye looks terrible.” He says with a chuckle.
“Thanks, man.” I reply with fake annoyance, putting down the bag of ice for him to take a better look at it. “Shouldn’t you be in class?”
“The teacher didn’t come today.” We remain silent until he dares to speak again. “Why did you do that?” The chocolate-eyed boy asks while taking a seat next to me.
“He deserved it.” I say with a shrug, placing the bag back over my damaged skin.
“But now you won’t go to the contest.” He affirms with sadness.
I look at him with a surprised look. “How do yo-“
“Mr. Campbell was very excited to announce your replacement.” He info
