When class ends, I hang back while Mr. LeMonde gathers his papers. Carter is the first one to stalk out of the class. The other students file out quickly too, probably rushing to their next classes or skipping them entirely. I hover near his desk, my nerves taut like a stretched rubber band“Good morning, sir,” I force out as he turns to leave.He looks up. When his eyes meet mine, they seem to twinkle, like this isn't the first time he's seen me. I'm drawn to them. They seem to promise mischief, antics that may get me burned, but yet will enjoy as I stand in the flame. “Good morning, What's your name?”I swallow, felling the familiar weight of shame. I strangely feel both nervous and almost turned on. “I'm Jackson. Ellie . Ellie  Jackson,” I stutter.“Yes Ellie , what can I do for you?”“I was wondering if. . . I could change my partner.”He leans back slightly, not looking surprised at all.“Well, it's possible. But that's a lot of stress moving people around to accommodate you so I'
 Last Updated : 2025-10-29
Last Updated : 2025-10-29