Her Popular Boy

Sigh...

That was all I could muster as my gaze landed on Anthony Lingston, my ex-boyfriend—a vision that seemed to shimmer in the sunlight.

His perfectly tousled hair looked almost ethereal, and he appeared charmingly attentive during Mrs. Grace's lesson, a sight far more captivating than the sixty-something-year-old teacher who should perhaps consider retirement.

Why hasn't she retired yet?

The school bell rang, signaling the end of class. Students hurriedly packed up their things with a burst of energy, while I moved at a much slower pace. The idea of heading to lunch held no excitement for me; in fact, I hadn't felt excited about anything in the past year. It's only the second week of my senior year, after all.

With my belongings gathered, I made my way toward the library. But fate had other plans. As I navigated the crowded hallway, I suddenly found myself airborne, tumbling amidst the throng of students. Those around me erupted into laughter, as if this were the most hilarious spectacle they'd ever witnessed.

"Aaaaw, is little Lillian upset?" Hazel, my former best friend, cooed mockingly, her entourage snickering behind her. She had tripped me, an act that she likely considered sophisticated.

Choosing to ignore her taunts, I began to pick up my scattered items. However, a sharp pain shot through my left hand, stopping me short. I stared down at it, watching as blood seeped from a wound. The agony was indescribable.

"Damnit! I got blood on my shoe!" Hazel huffed, inspecting her stiletto heel—the very one that had just pierced the back of my hand.

"It wouldn't have happened if this freak wasn't in our school!" Sierra, Hazel's sidekick, chimed in.

Hazel smirked. "You know what? You're right! Lillian should just do everyone a favor and disappear!"

I clutched my bleeding hand, the sting behind my eyes threatening to spill over into tears. But I wouldn't give them the satisfaction of seeing me cry; I bit down on my lip to hold back the emotion.

The crowd began to disperse, and it seemed even the gods had heard my silent plea as Hazel and her group left without further ado. Anthony followed Hazel out, not sparing me a glance.

Yes, Anthony is now dating Hazel—how cliché can life get?

No one offered to help me up or assist with gathering my belongings. With only one good hand, I struggled to pick everything up before finally making my way to the nurse's office. While I was no stranger to this place, I'd never come here with an injury like this. Nurse Cora's eyes widened when she saw me enter.

"What happened?" she asked, rushing to my side.

Unfortunately, that's when dizziness hit me. The room started spinning, and I felt myself swaying. I think I managed to utter a few words, but I couldn't be sure. The last thing I remember was darkness enveloping me.

"Lillian," a voice called softly.

My eyes fluttered open, adjusting to the brightness. My aunt stood beside me, looking worried, and next to her was a man I presumed to be my doctor. Attempting to sit up, I inadvertently used my injured hand for support, causing a sharp scream to escape my lips from the pain.

"I'm so sorry, Miss Izzy. Are you okay?" the doctor asked, concern evident in his voice.

It's almost like he expected me to say yes after such a question.

Despite the absurdity of the inquiry, I managed to mumble, "I'm fine."

"Lillian, what happened?" my aunt asked, her worry palpable.

"It's nothing," I replied hastily, but the look on her face told me she wasn't buying it.