April Fools-Elizabeth

Our darting, accusing eyes burn through each other. The usual goofy chatter has lowered to a quiet hum of whispers. Thoughts buzz through my head, flustering my mind. I cautiously select a pretzel and scan the classroom before quickly popping it in my mouth. We are careful to look down. Catching someone's eye could be deadly. The scampering sound of clogs echoes, louder, louder. Ms. Willow glides in without a word. In one steady motion she sits and points to the board. We flip to page 85 in our textbooks, unsure of what we are supposed to be doing. We sneak glances at each other, mentally asking questions. My hand shakes as I take a pencil from my binder. I can't take this pressure. I silently excuse myself to the back of the room and grab a paper cup and reach for the faucet handle. The water shoots out in a steady stream. My grey tee shirt darkens with the combination of liquid. My mouth gaped, I turn around. Ms. Willow covers her face, holding back her loud, jolly laugh. My lips twitch, forcing that strong urge to retreat. "APRIL FOOLS!" Ms. Willow manages. The class erupts. The atmosphere lightened considerably after that.