CHAPTER 17

Dianne's Point of View

As I stepped into our classroom, snippets of whispered conversations fluttered around me like a swarm of gossiping butterflies.

"Have you seen the gay guy who won Mr. SCU? Wow, he’s actually really handsome."

"Yeah, he’s so manly now. I wonder what happened."

"It’s surprising! But he’s really handsome!"

"Totally! I think I have a crush on him now."

"Hey, I saw him first!"

The chatter bubbled with excitement, and I could practically feel the electric buzz in the air. Curiosity prickled at my heart, and I instinctively knew who they were talking about.

"Are they talking about Michael?" I turned to Sara, my friend sitting beside me. She adjusted her glasses, a thoughtful frown knitting her brow.

"Yes. I saw him yesterday. He looks so different now compared to before," she replied, her eyes sparkling with interest.