Eva and Lucas

She got to school and noticed Hazel was absent. She was a bit worried and to think more that she doesn't know her house either does she have a phone to call Hazel. She could only wish and hope her friend was okay.

Lucas noticed how bored she was. He decided to sit with her. At least to keep her company.

Mrs. Johnson, the history teacher, stood at the front of the classroom, scanning the room with a keen eye. "Okay, class. Who can tell me the significance of the Treaty of Versailles in relation to World War II?"

The classroom fell silent, with students glancing at each other nervously. Some scribbled notes on their papers, hoping to come up with an answer. Others simply shrugged, giving up.

But Eva, sitting in the front row, raised her hand confidently. "Mrs. Johnson, the Treaty of Versailles imposed harsh penalties on Germany after World War I, which led to widespread resentment and economic hardship. This created a fertile ground for extremist ideologies like Nazism to rise, ultimately contributing to the outbreak of World War II."

The classroom erupted in a chorus of "oohs" and "wows," with students turning to Eva in admiration. Mrs. Johnson beamed with pride. "That is absolutely correct, Eva! You have a remarkable understanding of historical causality."

Lucas, sitting next to Eva, grinned at her. "Wow, Eva, you're a genius!" he whispered.

Eva blushed, feeling a flutter in her chest. "Thanks, Lucas," she said, trying to play it cool. "I just like learning, that's all."

Mrs. Johnson continued, "Well, Eva has set the bar high for the rest of you. Let's move on to the next topic..."

As the lesson progressed, Eva felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. She loved history, and it was moments like these that made her feel truly alive. Little did she know, Lucas was watching her with growing admiration, his interest in her piqued by her intelligence and confidence.

15

After school that day as Eva walked out of the school building, she noticed Lucas leaning against his car, waiting for her. He smiled and beckoned her over. "Hey, Eva, want a ride home? I can drop you off," he offered.

Eva hesitated, feeling a flutter in her chest. She wasn't sure if she was ready to spend more time with Lucas and she didn't want to bother him

"Thanks, Lucas, but I'm okay. I'll just walk," she said, adjusting her backpack.

Lucas looked disappointed but tried to persuade her. "Come on, it's no trouble. I'd love to drive you home and make sure you are safe"

Eva shook her head,her mind made up. "Really, Lucas, I'm fine. I can take care of myself. I don't want to bother you either"

"Eva you are not bothering me. I choose to please Evaaaaaaa just a ride" Lucas pleaded almost crying

"Well, thank Lucas. I can sort myself out.I'll see you around," she said, already turning to leave.

Lucas tried calling out to her but she gave him a deaf ear all he could do was watching her go and got into his car and zoomed off

The next at school, Eva's face lit up with relief as she spotted Hazel walking towards her in the school hallway, her bright pink backpack and curly brown hair making her stand out in the crowded corridor. She had been worried sick about her friend since the previous day, when Hazel had failed to show up at school without any explanation.  She had barely slept last night, her mind racing with thoughts of Hazel in danger or hurt.

"Hazel! Oh my gosh, I was so worried about you yesterday!" Eva exclaimed, rushing over to her friend. She grabbed Hazel's arms, holding her at arm's length to scrutinize her face. "What happened? Are you okay? You look a little pale."

Hazel looked apologetic, her eyes filled with regret. "Sorry about that, Eva. I overslept and couldn't make it to school. I feel terrible for worrying you." She shook her head, her ponytail bobbing. "I'm such a space case sometimes. I set my alarm for PM instead of AM, and I didn't wake up until afternoon."

Eva's expression turned stern, her hands on her hips. "You scared me half to death! Don't ever do that again, okay? I can't handle not knowing if you're safe or not." She had always been protective of Hazel, but this was the first time her friend's thoughtlessness had really frightened her. "What if something had happened to you? What if you were in trouble and I didn't know?"

Hazel nodded contritely, her shoulders slumping in remorse. "I promise, Eva. I'll set multiple alarms from now on. But thanks for caring so much. You're the best friend ever!" She smiled weakly, her eyes still apologetic.

Eva's expression softened, her concern melting away. "You'll never have to find out, because I'm always going to be here for you. But seriously, Hazel, don't ever scare me like that again. My heart can't take it!" She pulled Hazel into a tight hug, holding her close for a moment before releasing her.

Hazel smiled, her eyes shining with gratitude. "I won't, Eva. I promise. Let's make a pact to always look out for each other, okay?" She held out her pinky finger, and Eva hooked hers through it, sealing their promise.

"Okay, deal! Now, let's get to class before we're late!" Eva said, linking her arm through Hazel's as they walked together down the hallway, their friendship stronger than ever. As they walked, Eva couldn't help but feel grateful for their friendship and the unspoken understanding they shared. She knew that no matter what, Hazel would always be there for her, and vice versa.