We walked out of the classroom, She spoke to me again. "I didn't know you were smart, Dex," she said with a small giggle.
I felt a rush of warmth at her words. "Me too, It kind of surprised me," he replied with a shy smile.
Jasmine giggled again. " I guess I'll see you at the attendance office later, It was nice talking to you. "
"Sure thing," I replied, feeling a mixture of excitement and disbelief. Jasmine had spoken to me twice in one day. Maybe, just maybe, there was something there. But deep down, I knew better. She was just being kind, like she always was to everyone else.
As I headed toward the gym which was my next period, Jake popped up behind me with his typical laid-back greeting. "Hey, what up, aaah?
"Dex," I said.
"Huh?" Jake looked momentarily puzzled.
"I mean, my name is Dex."
"Yeah, Dex, I knew that," he replied, attempting to play it cool. "Thanks for the help in biology. I'm struggling in that class, so I appreciate it, man
"It was nothing" I said trying to sound cool.
"guess I'll Catch you later" He said.
"Alright man" I said.
Yeah, Jake was in my class too, a chill guy who everyone liked. I couldn't help but envy him. Rumor had it he dated Jasmine in freshman year. Jasmine, the same girl who had spoken to me twice today. It stung, but I couldn't deny the twinge of jealousy.
Today, we were playing dodgeball in gym class.
As I felt a tap on my shoulder, I turned around to find Kirah standing there once again, with her bright smile. "What's up, birthday boy?" she chirped, her energy contagious. "You ready to play some dodgeball?"
"Not really," I admitted, my voice lacking its usual enthusiasm. "I'm not feeling too good."
"Too bad. It's either dodgeball or birthday punches," Kirah declared with a playful threat. "Your call."
I chuckled at Kirah's playful threat, knowing she was determined to make my birthday memorable. With a resigned smile, I nodded, "Alright, alright, you win. Let's go play some dodgeball."
Kirah grinned, excitement dancing in her eyes. "That's the spirit! We're going to crush it out there."
I chuckled, appreciating her enthusiasm. "We'll make a great team, Kirah. Let's show them what we're made of."
As we sat down on the bleachers, my gaze followed Mr. Jensen, our teacher, who stood confidently in the center of the gym, a whistle dangling around his neck and a clipboard clutched in his hand.
"Alright, folks, gather 'round," he called out, his tone a blend of authority and camaraderie. "Today's game: dodgeball." I get it, it's not everyone's cup of tea, but trust me, it's a fun game and a great way to get some exercise.
Mr. Jensen explained the rules, setting the objectives and penalties.
"We'll play three rounds," he continued, his voice cutting through the chatter. "Winning team gets bragging rights. Losing team... well, let's just say you don't want to be on the losing team."
"Alright, let's get started! Mike and Dexter, since it's your birthday," Coach announced.
A few cheers erupted, and I couldn't help but feel nervous under the spotlight.
"You two are team captains. Pick your teams."
Since it was my birthday, I got to pick first.
"I'll choose Kirah," I declared, trying to keep my voice steady despite the nerves.
The students "oohed"
Blushing with embarrassment, I was relieved when Coach intervened. "Settle down, everyone. Let's keep it civil."
As the picking continued, Mike, the other team captain, made his selection, choosing Jake, his best friend.
I felt the eyes of my classmates bearing down on me, I hesitated for a moment before the voice in my head whispered insistently, "Pick him, Pick him."
I paused, unsure, but the voice was insistent. So, I pointed toward my classmate. The voice continued to guide me, and I followed its direction, selecting each member for our team until everyone was chosen.
Coach clapped his hands, bringing everyone's attention back to the game. "Alright, teams, let's get into position! Remember, it's all about teamwork and strategy. And Dex, happy birthday again! Let's make this game one to remember!"