I key his number in.
“I’ll send you a text so that you can have my cell number, too.”
As soon as we walk out of earshot of the boys, Jamal starts talking. “You can’t hang out with them.”
“Why?”
“Montgomery is a football town. They take games and rivals really serious. It’s like the town’s lifeblood.”
“If you’re seen with them, a target will be put on your back by and every student at Montgomery Academy will be after you,” Kate adds. “You’ll be seen as a traitor who consorts with the enemy.”
“The enemy? Jesus, it’s just high school football.” I laugh.
Jamal and Kate don’t find humor in my comment.
“Come on, I know you both mean well, but I’m going to do what I want. I don’t dance to the beat of other people. I have my own rhythm. It’s not like I’m going to advertise that I’ll be going to Jake’s parties.”
We leave the mall to head back to Montgomery.
When I arrive home later that night, my mother is sitting on the sofa in the living room. She stops working on her laptop when I enter the house.
“Hey baby, did you have a good time at the mall?”
“Wonderful. I met a few hot boys, had a Brazilian wax, and bought a few things.”
“Good. I wanted to make sure we had a few minutes to catch up today. I feel like I’ve been neglecting you since the move. Things have been hectic. I want you to know that I’m here if you need to talk.”
“I know, Mom.”
“Come have a seat by me.” She rubs the empty space next to her.
I remove my book bag from my shoulder to place on the side of the sofa along with my purchases before taking a seat. My mom reaches over to give me a strong hug.
“How were cheerleader tryouts?”
“I decided not to try out, Mom.”
“Why not? I know you would’ve made the squad. You’ve been a cheerleader since elementary school.”
“This is my last year of high school, so I want to really focus on my academics to get accepted into a really good college.”
I lie to her because I don’t want her to worry about me, and anyway, I can take care of myself. I don’t need to run to my mom about problems at school.
“Oh okay. Well, I want you to do what’s best for you.”
“I’m the chief editor of the school paper.”
“Congratulations, sweetheart. I’m so happy for you.”
“Thanks, Mom. So, between the school paper, working, and focusing on my academics, there’s no time for cheerleading.”
“There’s a tutoring program for students who are struggling academically on Tuesdays and Thursdays after school. I was wondering if you would be interested in volunteering. It would look good on your college applications.”
“That’s a great idea, Mom. I’m available on Thursdays, so I can start next week.”
“Wonderful, school is only ten minutes away. Be sure to drive over right after school.”
“Okay, Mom.
