My insides are coiling as I go through classes, forcing myself to listen and take notes. Doodling in the paper margins, variations on the letter ‘A’.
Study hall arrives after excruciating hours. I rise, get my library pass, busy myself with books, leaving when no else is. Glancing back, Alison is standing up to get hers. Oh boy, the red/purple dress.
In the auditorium, I close the curtains, sealing the room in near-total black. Anyone (like the Foon) entering will have to feel around for lights. Drop my books in the vestibule to the alley, then wait in the back. I’m relaxed, knowing she’ll come. I think back to Steve’s advice. Gotta start being a new man today (oh yeah, big thoughts from a seventh grader, right?)
Door opens, I hear feet. She calls my name.
“Back here, Allie. I’ll come get you.”
Our hands meet and fold. I guide her past the projector room. Exit lights bathe us in pale crimson.
“I need a minute for my eyes to clear.”
“OK” I lean her back against the wall. “I have an idea to pass the time.”
Giggle. “I bet you do.” We kiss slowly, unhurried; adrift in the mystery of darkness. She moans occasionally.
Finally: “We can move now. I have to put these damn books down.”
Sigh. Necking in the dark was fun.