Similar but Different

Chapter Twenty Two: Exam Season

Similar but Different

Chapter Twenty two

Clara Hamilton

Today is the day.

The day to see how much have I actually learned throughout these past weeks.

The day where we have to take our exams.

I played with my pen as the teacher distributed our test papers. I looked around to see everyone anxious- except for a few like me.

The first exam was English Language so it was a piece of cake. I managed to finish fast and checked it twice before handing it up and leave.

The good thing is, after your exam, you can hand up straight-away and leave.

I went to the school's cafe located in the library and ordered frappé. It was peaceful and quiet since it wad just me, the cashier and the librarian.

"Clara," a familiar voice said. I looked up and smiled, "Xander."

He took the sit next to me and looked all serious. Everything was suddenly tense. The air suddenly got colder.

"What's with Natalie? Is she still bothering you?" He asked coldly with a frown. His voice sent shivers down my spine.

I shook my head and lied, "nah, don't sweat it."

Xander sighed and ran his fingers through his dark chocolate brown and wavy hair.

"And who's the soccer guy?" He asked again. I gave him a look. What's with him and the questions?

"Why are you suddenly so interested?" I asked with a look. He shot a death glare, "Hamilton, I asked you a question, so please don't be dumb and answer my question correctly instead of another question," he bluntly said. I gasped and gave him my best glare. Great, he's back to being an ice huh?

"He's a childhood friend. Lance Larsen," I told him. "Why are you suddenly asking?" I asked.

"Just confirming the rumors, they are still fresh you know," he told me, sounding a little less cold now.

The thing about me is, I'm oblivious when it comes to people talking about me. So most of the time, I'll have no idea with what's going on. Thankfully, I have friends that are brave and blunt enough to fill in the blank spaces.

"People think you're slutty," Xander blurted out. I cringed at the word. Wow, really?

"I don't think you're not though," He reassured. It was useless though. I didn't need any reassuring. They can talk all they want to but I won't really feel much. I've gotten numb through the years. All thanks to the training my dad got me and Lara in.

I smiled greatfully at Xander who just nodded. We were quiet for a while until the bell rang.

"Next exam starts in half an hour, you coming?" Xander stood up and placed his hands in his pockets. I shook my head, "I'm not in the mood for company, I suggest leaving me alone for now," I muttered. Since it was really quiet Xander heard it. He nodded and then walked off. Somehow, I felt a little guilty with what I said.

-.-.-.-.-.

"Your time starts now," the teacher told the class and everyone got busy with their test papers. It was Mathematics.

I liked Mathematics. It's the same in every country and every problem always has an exact or precise solution.

I finished answering the questions in no time. I was confident enough to say I'd score well in this exam. Afterall, it's my favorite subject.