The Sacrifice

One.

"Now, Liz," said mummy, "you be brave now."

I hugged her tightly. "Don't go, mummy." Tears rolled down my cheeks.

The teacher took my hand and I was forced to let go of mummy's flowery skirt. She waved at me as she watched me walk away.

The teacher, Ms. Rosalind, held my hand as we slowly walked into the hallways. We then entered one of the classrooms. The walls were painted baby blue with pictures of rainbows and flowers. I wiped my tears with the end of my sleeve and stood by the door, admiring its colours and pretty cartoons. My tears have stopped.

Ms. Rosalind brought to me to one of the round tables and sat me there. She made me take off my backpack and Cuddles, my teddy bear. I let her take my bag away but I insisted on keeping Cuddles by my side. As soon as she left my side, I could feel everyone's eyes on me. It wasn't a friendly stare, either. Throughout class, I held my head down and hugged Cuddles.

Recess finally arrived, and all the children ran out of the classroom with pure excitement, screaming in joy. I was the last to leave the room. I dragged Cuddles out with me as I slowly walked to the playground.

The swings were empty when I got there, so I immediately sat there. I saw children running around the playground, playing tag. Some were climbing by the monkey bars. A few were in the sandbox, tossing sand around, making castles and such.

I have never felt so lonely. I stared down at Cuddles, who was laying by my feet.

Suddenly, I saw a pair of hands pick Cuddles up. I was about to panic and looked up to meet a pair of ocean green eyes. The face spread into a beautiful and calming smile.

"Is this yours?"

I was unable for speech, so I only nodded. He lent Cuddles to me and smiled some more.

"Why are you alone?" he asks, his voice as gentle as ever.

I was silent.

"It's okay," he said, "I'm not like them."

It took me a while, but I managed to open my mouth. "I have no one to play with."

"You can join me. I have no one to play with, too."

He gave me his hand and I hesitantly reached it. He pulled me out of the swing.

"What's your name? I'm Zachary."

"I'm Liz."

He nodded. Suddenly, his face broke into a mischievous smile. "You're it!" he yelled before he started running. I let my childishness take over and chased after him.

It was the beginning of a beautiful friendship.