The next Wednesday arrived, and I still felt unprepared to return to class. Today marked a full week since I had last set foot in school, making it the fourth consecutive day I had chosen to skip classes. I had a reason.
Thankfully, the injury on my nose had healed, but a faint mark remained, a constant reminder that I resented for marring my features. With careful application of powder, I hoped to mask it.
A wave of sadness washed over me when I thought about missing out on soccer. Julian, with his infectious enthusiasm for the game, was one of the main reasons I had been looking forward to it, along with Leah. The thrill of playing was enticing, and I didn't want to fall behind my peers. I promised myself that I would muster the strength to attend the club and register by next Wednesday.
