Walking into the English class, I scan the room, and there, in the corner, sits Christian, engrossed in his book, seemingly oblivious to the world around him. I admire it, honestly, but mostly, I understand it.
For as long as I can remember I’ve been obsessed with books… a place where words became friends and pages turned into whole worlds.
Perhaps magic truly does exist.I smile at the thought.
On the other side of the room, Naomi and Ava chatter away. Their voices are too loud, too pointed, and I make a point not to listen. Instead, I avoid their gaze and head toward Ajax, who’s waving enthusiastically from our usual seats. Ajax kind of reminds me of a golden retriever, always so cheerful. He’s always smiling, always happy and radiating an infectious type of warmth. You just can’t help but like him.
“Hey, Ads!” he calls out, leaning over dramatically as I approach. “I was starting to think you’d abandoned me. Imagine the tragedy of me enduring Shakespeare’s sonnets all alone.”
A small smile tugs at my lips. “Oh, really? And here I thought you were looking forward to it. Also, I think Shakespeare might have appreciated a little less criticism from the living.”
He sighs so passionately it actually makes me slightly jolt. “Addie you’re right. Disrespecting the dead and their work really is not a good look for me.”
I laugh, shaking my head. “Apologies to Shakespeare, then. I’m sure he’s rolling in his grave.”
Ajax’s expression turns exaggeratedly serious, his gaze lifting skyward, “Dear Mr. Shakespeare, we humbly apologize for our disrespect to your sonnets and, well, most of your work. We promise to show them the respect they deserve. And, if it’s any consolation, we’ll try not to fall asleep during our analysis sessions,” he says to… the sky?
“I feel like you’re still disrespecting Shakespeare here,” I point out, barely holding back a grin.
He winks. “You know, Addie, Shakespeare was a great, wise man. But couldn’t he have written in a way that didn’t require us to Google every other word?” “
I chuckle. “Sometimes.”
He groans dramatically, leaning back in his chair. “I need a nap. This class hasn’t even started, and I’m already finished.”
“Sleep when you get home,” I say.
“Nuh-uh. I can’t. I have this gathering tonight with my parents. You know, the annual one,” he manages through a yawn.
Rich people problems.
“What is it? I’ve never heard of it.” I raise an eyebrow. Funny how he expects me to be aware of this kind of thing.
Ajax sighs heavily. “It’s like this big show-off event where celebrities and their extravagant kids flaunt their money and fame or whatever. It’s the most boring thing ever, but my parents make me go every damn year.”
“That sounds… delightful.”
Ajax rolls his eyes. “Oh, yes, absolutely riveting. You can only imagine the excitement of watching people parade around in designer outfits while we engage in polite small talk and sip sparkling water.”
I laugh. “Make sure you get their autographs for me.”
***
Later, I hurry into the café, determined not to ruin my streak of being on time. Rick greets me with a raised eyebrow, glancing at his watch. “Every day this week, Addie. Impressive.”
I offer a sheepish smile. “Hi, Rick.” But just as I open my mouth to say more, he waves his hand at me dismissively. “No need for any details,” he says.
Understandable.
Scanning the café, my eyes land on Camille, who looks particularly lovely and dressed up. There’s an extra glow about her today, with something I quickly recognize as excitement. Curiosity bubbles up as I make my way over. “What’s the occasion?”
Her smile widens, her excitement contagious. “I’m waitressing at this fancy event tonight. And guess what? Celebrities are going to be there!”
Recognition sparks. This must be the same event Ajax had mentioned. “That’s amazing, Cami! You’re going to do great.”
“Oh, I’m so prepared, Addie,” she gushes, “I’ve practised balancing trays, perfected my serving skills, and I even have the address of the venue in my notes, so I won’t forget a thing. And my phone is ready for photos. I’ve already made space for all the pictures I’m going to take.”
“You’re going to crush it,” I say, meaning every word.
