By the time she’s done, the room spins, and she’s wobbling.
Darius stands to steady her. “Whoa, whoa, don’t turn into a merry-go-round.”
“He he he… don’t tempt me.” Kay flashes a big smile.
“Is that the full routine?”
“No… just the beginning. I need ten more minutes of choreography.” She sighs drastically.
“You’ll figure it out.” Darius smooches her hand. “You’re amazing.”
“Aww!” She kisses him. “You’re being super sweet.”
“It’s the truth…you are.” He brushes his nose against hers. “Sounds like I’m the best boyfriend in the world.”
“Number 1.”
“You too…”
“Hey, I’m not a boy!” She snorts cunningly.
“No… you’re too pretty to be one.” He plays with her fluffy tutu, curling the hem around his fingers.
Kay flips her hair behind her back. “I know.”
“Don’t get big-headed.”
“Too late.” She eyes a clock above the door. “Oh, crap!”
Kay tugs him toward the exit. “Let’s get to school.”
Outside, the sidewalks are hectic. Many students wait for the green light. The girls rock preppy skirts and big hair. The boys sport leather jackets and band T-shirts. When the light changes, the group hustles alongside business folk. Buses hiss and rumble, their tires rolling harshly on gravel. A brush of summer’s air ripples everyone’s hair. Kayla sniffs the air while crossing a corner bakery. Fresh doughnuts, cookies, and tea, seep from the open doors.
Blue tents drape from the top of shop windows, allowing protection from the sun. The buildings around are a mixture of old school and modern—brick high-rises versus steel ones pillared to the ground. The group passes an alley, looking both ways before stepping toward the modern area. Dozens of banners promote a Theatre show; each one wrapped from street poles like flags. The upcoming ballet show.
Kayla points to it enthusiastically. “Two weeks, I can’t wait!”
“You’ll steal the show.”
“Wish me luck.” She adores how her boyfriend crosses his fingers in support.
Jones College Prep comes into view—a steel high-rise sealed to the sidewalks by round columns. Darius sweetly pecks his lips to Kayla’s. “See you later.”
“See you later.”
When he turns to walk off, her eyes gloss over with tears. Kayla blinks rapidly to fend off tears. Her stomach knots up. If only we were at the same school… this limb-ripping moment wouldn’t happen. I asked my parents to transfer me, but they’re paying high tuition to broaden my future. I wish they had listened. I’ll still have a bright path regardless of which school I go to. I need to see my boyfriend every second of the day.
Kayla pouts.
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