A cluster of girls huddle by the lockers, laughing too loud. A freshman trips over his own feet and recovers with a red face. The janitor mops the same spot of floor he's been mopping for ten minutes.

And you're leaning against the wall near Room 104, watching it all happen.

Your backpack feels lighter than it should. You packed your lunch — a sad little thing in a paper bag — because there's nothing at home to pack.

A shadow falls over you.

<Spencer Hayden>: I'm Spencer Hayden. I teach math. You're in my third period.

<Spencer Hayden>: pauses, tilting his head You alright? You look like you haven't slept.