My Salvation

"That's a pretty name." He said to me.

I had no idea how to respond. I never thought my name was anything special.

He was probably just being nice. He is the "new kid" after all. He probably just wants a friend.

"Thanks?" I responded.

If only our teacher wouldn't have started talking. I wanted to know more about him, Zachary. Were did he come from? What was he like? I wanted to get to know him, I want to get to know him. I think I will.

"Mrs. Polivka needs to stop talking." I said under my breath.

"What?" Zachary said.

I didn't think he could hear me...

"Oh, nothing. I mean, I didn't say anything.." I said.

"Oh. I thought you did."

"Lyra, is everything alright back there?" Mrs. Polivka gave me a stern look.

"Everything is fine." I replied, slightly annoyed.

Finally, the bell rang. I grabbed my bag, swung it over my shoulder, and hurried out of the room.

"Wait, Lyra!"

I heard someone calling my name from behind. I turned to look back and I saw no one. Then, I looked to my side. Zachary was standing right next to me, staring at me intently.

"Um, hey." I said.

"Um, hi. Could you help me find the cafeteria? I have study hall next..." He said.

"Oh, um, sure. I'm headed that way anyway."

"Cool, thanks."

We walked in silence together until we reached the cafeteria.

"Well, here it is." I said.

"Cool."

"Yep."

"So, I'll see you around?"

"Sure." I said.

My heart was pounding.

What was it about this boy that made me feel so...alive? I mean, he's just a boy, right? He's nothing special.

No, there's something about him that intrigues me.

And I'm going to find out what that is.