2 - Natalya.

Natalya

As I search his ice-blue eyes, I wonder what I’ve done to inspire hatred from a boy I don’t even know. It’s impossible to understand, so instead of saying another word, I turn away and walk toward an empty table near the back. Once I’m almost at the table, someone calls my name.

“Hey, Natalya.”

I turn to see Adrianna sitting nearby, watching me. I’ve spoken to her briefly in physical education and she’s always been friendly, even if we’re not friends.

“Hey,” I say, clenching my jaw as I try not to let the pain in my chest draw tears. All I really want is to eat fast and go back to my room to sob into my pillow.

“What was that all about?”

I shrug. “New kid doesn’t like me and Jeanie cares more about hot guys than her friend.”

Adrianna pats the seat next to her. “You are welcome to join me, Giorgia, and Azira.”

I glance at the other two girls sitting at her table, who I’ve never spoken to but know by name.

Azira smiles at me. “Yeah, that’s pretty shitty what Jeanie just did.”

I