One Up

Chapter 3

I sit in English tapping nonchalantly on my desk, waiting for the usual bell to ring. Above all of the courses I've taken, English is my favorite. I love the stories. I love the creation. Everything about it allows me to gain further knowledge for the day when I can help create a story of my own. The only difference is my story would be more visual.

Oh, I so can't wait to start my life.

I watch as Mrs. Caufield, on cue, walks into the classroom as the bell rings.

"Well, well, well, I believe I have a rather interesting conversation to start before we get started," she starts, casting her glance over the classroom until it stops on me. She gives me a small smile.

"Samantha is going to be competing this Saturday in the International League of Gamers. The top twenty will be testers for the upcoming game One Up." She continues. "Is there anyone else who is going to compete?"

The class takes glances back and forth at each other, but no one raises their hand. I blush in embarrassment, not finding comfort in being called out. A lot of students stare at me. Some stare in interest, while others roll their eyes.

One in particular catches my eye though. A student wearing a hood at the back of the class. I can barely see who it is, but I know they are staring at me.

"Well class, I wanted to just say that I wish Sam, and anyone else who may be competing, good luck on your endeavours. Now, let's turn to page 364 in your textbooks," Mrs. Caufield says.

I stare at the mysterious person for a second more before turning to the story. I didn't need to look to know their eyes were still on me. I didn't care. My mind focused in on the story, the world around me fading into nothingness.

We read through most of The Great Gatsby until the final bell rings... the last bell of the day. Everyone hurry to their lockers to leave for the day. I watch the mayhem, glad I don't need anything as I travel to Ephrata High School's entrance.

I almost reach the doors when I feel a tap on my shoulder. I turn and find an unfamiliar... yet familiar face.

"I believe we haven't met?" Sage asks, his voice flowing smoothly as he speaks.

"Yeah, um, I guess we haven't. I've um.. heard you're new here?" I ponder nervously. He smiles. An endearing smile that makes me blush.

"Yeah. I moved from Nebraska. My name is Sedra but most people call me Sage," he says, flipping his dark hair from his eyes.

"Sage, like the incense they use to rid evil?"

Sage smirks. "Yeah, kinda like that."

"So um..." I start. "What brings you to want to talk to me?" I shift awkwardly on my feet. Above from socializing with Rachael, I've never really talked with anyone.

"Well, I heard that you're competing in the International League of Gamers. I wanted to tell you that I look forward to seeing you there on Saturday."

"You're going to be there?" I answer in surprise.

"Yeah, I'm a big gamer. I figured I wouldn't be so alone since I know you're going now."

"Well, um, yeah. I'll definitely be there."

His eyes narrow and a charming smile spreads across his face. "Well m'lady, until next time?" He holds out his hand. I blush.

"Until next time, Sage," I smile, putting my hand in his. He gently bends down and kisses my middle knuckle, before winking and turning on his heel, striding away toward the classrooms.

I stand for a moment, almost in a daze. Did that really just happen?

"Sam! Samantha!"

I turn on my heel and find Rachael running towards me.

"Sam, I've been waiting for five minutes, where were you?" she asks in bewilderment.

"Sorry, I was on my way out." I mutter.

"Well, your mother is waiting out in the parking lot. We have to get going."

"Right, sorry, we don't need to miss the flight."

"You bet we don't!" Rachael winks, looping her arm through mine and leading me out the entrance of the high school into the world, where the unknown awaits me.