TWENTY FOUR: VELVET BOX

[SHAIRA'S POINT OF VIEW]

The sky was clear, and the sun enjoyed the vastness of the sea of foam. Although the fireball in the sky was scorching, a gentle breeze had compensated for it.

I closed my eyes and counted to hundreds until I heard my son's voice.

"What happened here?" I asked, caressing my son's knee.

"I tripped, then I bled. Sir. Ryan put on this cute band aid," Tamra replied and smiled proudly.

"Take care, and I'll see you in class, Joshua."

Ryan was about to turn his back, but I called his name and stopped him from leaving. He was frozen in the spot, and shortly after, his head slowly pivoted in our direction.

"I don't know what you wanted to say to me, but I think I should hear it. I guess it wouldn't take much time."

"Are you sure?" Ryan asked as he headed towards my location.

"Can we talk in private? I don't like hearing a weird rumor if the people in our circle recognize us," I replied.

"I understand. Where shall I meet you then?" Ryan asked.