#leah1

Somewhere between DNA replication and the lights dimming for a short video clip, Isaac falls asleep beside me. I grin waiting for Lockland to call him out and wake him up. He should have just skipped class and slept. I have no problem sharing my notes. I’ll have to let him know next time. I check my watch and class is about over and Professor Lockland has yet to say anything. Maybe she won’t. She decides to end a little early due to a meeting and walks out of the room. I gather my things, leaving a note for Isaac, and head to the lab.

I glance over at him from the corner of my eye. His notes are basically doodles of no specific shape or pattern. I become entranced with the movement of his pencil but he stops suddenly. Letters begin to form. Is he taking notes now? I squint my eyes to read what he just wrote. Hi Leah. I immediately straighten and focus back to the professors voice with Isaac letting out a small chuckle. Dammit.

But I didn’t know what to say. My face continued to match the red in my jacket the more I thought about what he said. He trusts me. He'd rather talk to me than her. At least that's what I’m hoping.

“Is this the face that looks like I woke up on the wrong side of the bed?” “No, I guess not. Just seems like something is bothering you.” “If there was something, you would be one of the first to know. I promise.” “Mitchell would know first I bet.” “You’re not wrong there. I hope you aren’t too disappointed to not be my number one.” “Dis-disappointed? Noo but I’m glad you are able to talk to someone, especially Mitchell.” “And you, of course.”

“Don’t you look more fashionable than normal. I guess being best friends with Holly has its perks.” “Um, thanks? I see laundry isn’t your best friend.” “I had a long night and no time to change this morning. Cut a man some slack. Besides, I believe I look better than you in my zip-up.” “Well, well I think someone is in a sour mood. Want to talk about it?”

I’ve never been fond of winter. In Queenstown, we see more rain than snow and I’m okay with that. Rainy days are the bet days to paint and read. The cold wind stings my face on my ride to class. I’d stop at the cafe but I know she’s working. I’m sure the chill I’m feeling isn’t the drop in temperature.

“And so do you, bird.” “I am happy. Happier than I have been for a while and don’t worry, I won’t say anything to Issac about this conversation. I’ll just have to learn the truth myself.” ”I appreciate that. I don’t want to stir up anymore trouble for him than he already has. Well, what do you think?” “You know, I've always liked braids and could never do them. It’s quite stylish. Thank you.” “It’s no problem. All I ask is a favor.” “Um, sure. Shoot.” “You must let me know what Isaac thinks!”