Chapter 12: Exhausted

"Come on," Darian says, ushering me to the front of the 'special food' counter. I bite my lip nervously, expecting the lunch lady to haul me off the line again, but her sight is set on Darian who she smiles prettily at.

"Two plates. The usual," Darian says with a stunning smile that has her fanning herself with the spatula.

Ugh.

It feels good to have this again. Privilege over others, however temporary it is.

My stomach growls at the smell of roast chicken and stew. I stare at the tray handed to me and joy has my eyes stinging.

I never thought I'd taste chicken again.

The Cafeteria is especially noisy tonight. It's deafening. The chatter and laughter mix together to create a wall of sound that makes it difficult to think. It is packed with students who are gathered around, laughing and chatting with each other. Some of them are taking selfies while others are sharing their food with their friends.

I feel my face heat up as we walk past. I can feel ey