by M. C. Decker
I got to class right as Markley was taking roll call for the day. Good thing our classes all start at ten past the hour. It never really made any sense to me until today. I slipped into the empty seat next to Rich right before I heard Markley say, “Miss Anderson?”
“Present,” I called out. Phew.
“Here’s my article. Want to read it? We can trade,” Rich said, as he shoved some papers in my face.
Fuck, I was so busy worrying about making it to class on time I forgot about the damn article. Think … you need an excuse Brooke. …
“Sorry, Rich, I need until tomorrow. I want to head back to the library to do some more research before I let you see my draft. I want to make sure this is such a brilliant opinion that I even have you bowing down before me.” Ha! Eat that, jackass.
“So, you flaked out and didn’t finish, huh? It’s OK, I figured you for the slacker-type anyways,” he harrumphed.
“Whatever, don’t be an ass, it’s not due until tomorrow, anyways,” I shot back. “Take a chill pill, will ya? Where do you get off anyways? … What the fuck is your problem?” I couldn’t help spewing off a series of insults … He really did know how to get under my skin.
“My problem is that I don’t have time for people who don’t take their work seriously, always so wrapped up in college drama. I came here to study and earn my degree so I can get a good job. People like you just waste my time.”
“Talk to the hand,” I said in my best Alicia Silverstone impression. I know it was stupid and immature, but I was so exasperated with this guy that I didn’t have any snappy comeback for him. “I’ll have my assignment when it’s due – tomorrow.”
I didn’t talk to him for the rest of the period; I just sat in the chair and stewed. I probably could have used the hour to write my damn opinion piece but this cocksucker really pissed me off. I wanted to smack him upside the head, but what I really didn’t want was for him to see the tears beginning to pool in my eyes. This guy would not get the satisfaction of seeing me cry. Finally, the clock above the door read eleven o’clock and I couldn’t get myself out of there fast enough.