Listening Wall

chapter five

It's been two weeks since Williams and I have been working so hard to make this tiring project work out fine. The "D-day"is finally here. The project is 40% of our total grade. Can you believe I haven't seen my lab partner yet. I'm losing my patience. "He's the biggest jerk ever" I blurted out in frustration.
"I am quite sure that wasn't meant for me, right?"Williams retorted. I felt slightly embarrassed. I didn't even know when he came in. I guess I was carried away by my frustration.
"Who else?" I replied trying to hide my hurt pride. "Are you sure you really mean that?" He laid his hand on his chest pretending to be hurt. I rolled my eyes to cover up for me being shot of words. It got me thinking "why exactly do I hate him? And do I truly hate him?" . I snapped out of my thought as soon as the teacher came into the class. Your projects is to be defended and your result will be posted on the school's website. I don't like the school's unnecessary procedures. And if I fail in this project. I wonder what my parents will do.
"What is the matter?" a voice beside me . I looked over to see my ever annoying buddy. "Something you can't understand"I replied.
For some reason, his face turned pale. "Did I say something wrong?" . I was confused and concerned with his sudden mood swing. " Nothing, never mind." I was about questioning him again when he suddenly walked out of the class. "What exactly did I say wrong?"I heard myself say. I stood there looking like a lost puppy.
I went out of the class to look for Williams because my conscience wouldn't just let me be. I kept looking until I saw a familiar image then I recognize it as Williams. He sitting all alone in the cafeteria. "Hi!" was all I say to him. He looked up at me with stormy eyes . He looked like he could punch or throw me away at any minute.
"I'm sorry if I said something wrong . I didn't mean to upset you" I said apologetically. "What the heck do you want? Can't you just leave me alone? You are nothing but a stalker with a pretty face .Just leave me alone" he shot back angrily. I could feel the hot stubborn tears streaming down my face. I kept trying to hold my tears back but it wouldn't stop flowing.
I couldn't take it anymore, I ran as fast as my legs could take me. I could hear Williams voice faintly as he called my name.

***
I slumped into the sofa chair feeling a rush of emotion; so angry, defeated, dissatisfied. I can believe he called a stalker. Well, it's kind of true. Kelvin sat beside me. I guess he was pitying me and thinking of how to console me. At least, it's a relief that he's here rather than my ever busy parents.
" I think you should rest at home for a while so you can regain yourself" he finally said breaking the awkward silence existing few moments ago. " Yeah! I guess so."I replied.