Have You Heard? I'm a Nerd. (EDITING)

Ch4: Write for the Readers

“Tammie!! Dinner!!” The piercing yell woke me from my slumber. I drowsily sat up and stretched my arms. I scratched my back and blinked repetitively to wake myself up. It was a decent rest. I didn’t dream, but I felt rejuvenated.

I walked into the kitchen and sat down at the dinner table. I looked down at my plate and saw Chinese takeout.

“Wow, this is the definition of a home cooked meal,” I stated sarcastically. My dad rolled his eyes, while my mom gave me a glare that said “eat this or starve.”

I sighed and opened the paper wrapped chop sticks. I always had trouble using the stupid wooden sticks, but I was too lazy to go through packaging to find forks.

I fumbled with the chopsticks and tried to grasp onto the slippery noodles. I started to pathetically stab at my food in an attempt to clasp it. You know what? Screw this.

I laughed victoriously in my head as I picked up the wormy looking noodles with my hand. I raised the long slimy thing above my mouth and tilted my head back. I slurped the noodle from the bottom and smacked my lips after swallowing it. I heard my dad chuckle while my mom asked me a question.

“So Tam, what are your ideas for your story?”

Oh, yes. That. Well as you know I love to write. It is not something I've taken up recently. Ever since I could use a pencil I wrote stories, poems, and the occasionally haiku. At the age of nine I was certain I wanted to be a writer. It's not the most prestigious occupation to pursue, but I enjoy what I do.

I want my writing to develop more. There's a chance it might. Every year there is a national competition called Write for the Readers. It's an event for young aspiring writers ages fifteen to nineteen. I mean there are some seriously talented writers out there, but no one hears of them, and that's why I love this competition. This year is actually going to be my first time entering the contest. I've finally gained the courage to "put myself out there."

Write for the Readers is months away, but the earlier I start, the better I can make my entry. I wanted to write about something a lot of people could relate to. That topic ladies and gentlemen is high school.

I bet you're telling yourself: Wow, boring and un-original. Yes, I know I could write about global warming, how much I love America, or an emotional story about a poor boy, but where's the excitement in that? I could simply write it on the spot. Believe me, I've thought long and hard about this. I wanted a topic that I could participate in with no worries whether I would win or loose.

I'm simply writing how it feels to walk down the hallways insecure and bullied. Well, I wouldn't say that the Tammie going to school is any different from the Tammie at home. Sure, I might dress just a "tad" bit nerdy, but I only do it to get a better experience. So far I'm not acting fake or anything; the clothing is what is getting the results. I could walk into school with a pair of regular jeans and no one would pay any attention. Are you catching my drift?

Let’s say by an amazing chance I won. The prize would be 5,000 dollars in cash, world wide recognition, and a publication of your book. I'm only living a dream. It may not come true, but I won't give up.

"Well, I'm just going with the flow really. So far so good though."

"That's great to hear but don't pressure yourself, Tam. Makes sure you're careful and you don't get yourself hurt. I know this is a big deal to you, but your security is what is most important. Though, in the end make sure that you teach the bullies a lesson. "

My mom winked after her lecture. I understand why she would think I wouldn't be safe. Some people can seriously take things out of hand, but I'll try not to.