02 | Back to School
The weeks after my brother’s cricket tour stretched long and dull. Nothing remarkable happened. I spent most days jogging, trying to build strength, hoping to see some improvement. It was slow going, but I hoped it was enough.
***
“Blah Blah Blah,” the alarm shrieked. I bolted upright, energized. School started tomorrow! Ninth grade! A wave of anticipation flooded me. It *had* to be a good year. I felt it in my bones. Everything would fall into place.
The entire day was consumed by organizing my books, meticulously packing my backpack. I hadn’t felt this excited about school in ages. It was the second year of high school, a fresh start. Maybe I’d even get a boyfriend. Maybe Liam would finally let me know how he felt.
Liam was a year older, a tenth grader. He was… breathtaking. I’d been hopelessly crushing on him for eight months. Tall, tanned skin, curly hair, piercing blue eyes—and a kindness that seemed to radiate from him.
This year would be easier. No new teachers, no new courses. Just a new principal. I hoped he’d be competent, capable of leading the school effectively.
***
The day dissolved quickly. Every book was secured, every pencil sharpened. I was ready.
***
“Blah Blah Blah,” the alarm blared again. This time, I leaped from bed even faster. Today was *it*. School.
I couldn’t wait to see everyone, especially Riley. She was my best friend, the one who’d held me together through the turbulence of freshman year. I wouldn’t have survived without her. She meant the world to me. I wondered what she’d been up to during the vacation. I heard rumors she’d gotten her first kiss with AB.
**
I practically ran through the school doors, a surge of excitement bubbling inside me. I rushed into a group hug, then scanned the crowd. And then I saw Liam. My heart hammered against my ribs, a frantic drumbeat. I felt my cheeks flush with heat.
*Chloe, stay calm.* Just breathe. That’s all you have to do.
He smiled. A genuine, radiant smile. I felt my face go numb. I managed a weak smile in return. He looked even more handsome after the summer. I’d missed him. I wished I could just talk to him, casually, without freezing up. I liked him so much, even though we’d never exchanged more than a few polite words.
“How was your vacation, Chloe?” Riley asked, beaming.
“Great! And yours?”
“Perfect!” She said, her smile widening. “I have to tell you something!”
“Tell me?” I urged.
“I got my first kiss!” She squealed, her voice high-pitched.
“You’re kidding! That’s amazing! When?”
“When I visited. We were watching a movie, and it just happened. It was perfect!”
“That’s fantastic! I’m so happy for you!”
We walked toward our seats in the hall, the opening assembly about to begin.
“Welcome back everyone from a long summer!” the principal boomed, his voice resonating through the hall. “I’m glad to see you all. This year is packed with new traditions and opportunities…”
He concluded with a quote: “The Lord is on my side; I will not fear.”
**
The classes were a blur. Excitement thrummed through me. The periods were short, mostly introductions and pep talks. They told us grade nine would be the hardest year—emotionally and academically.
**
I could barely contain my anticipation for tonight’s dance. I showered early, pulling on black shorts, a maroon shirt, and my All Stars. It was time.
**
We sat outside, chatting, until a beat dropped. The music didn't inspire slow dancing, but the energy was infectious. Camilla, another of my best friends, leaned close.
“I like someone new. Did I tell you?” she asked.
“No! Tell!” I insisted.
“Liam,” she said, her voice filled with happiness.
My stomach dropped. *Liam?* She knew I’d been crushing on him for months. How could she? To act as if she knew nothing about my feelings felt like a betrayal.
I wasn’t going to break down over this. If she and Liam were meant to be, so be it. I wouldn’t torture myself over it. He wasn’t worth the heartache. If he didn’t feel the same way, I’d have to accept it.
***
The next day was uneventful. Just a normal school day, filled with homework—a little early, but not overly burdensome.
***
Today was the day! Basketball trials. I couldn’t wait to get back on the netball court.
“Welcome everyone!” Miss Swift announced. “I hope you’ve rested well and practiced this vacation. We’re starting trials in ten minutes. Submit your name and position to Miss White. Start warming up to prevent injuries.”
I scribbled my name and position, then began warming up. I was terrified. What if I didn’t make the team? What if I failed? What if I got injured? What if I couldn’t play, run, or make the right choices?
*Chill, Chloe! You got this!* Show them you’ve practiced all summer.
*Inhale, exhale.* Repeat. *Inhale, hold for five seconds, exhale.*
“Everyone ready? Let’s begin!” Miss Swift said. “Claire, Hannah, Maya, Lucy, Mia, Ella, and Chloe, take your places on the court.” She pointed us out, then called the names of the opposing team. I felt more stressed than I had in ages.
*Focus! Catch the ball, Chloe! Yes! Now throw it to Hannah!*
I played terribly. I knew I’d never make the A-team.
Helloo everyone!!! I hope you are enjoying the story so far!! Please comment and VOTE!!! I'm on a roll, I've been writing the whole day!! I hope it is a little bit interesting. Sorry if it is still boring, it will soon get interesting, promise!! There is a lot more to come!!! Enjoy the story xoxo