God's Not Dead ( God's Not Dead #1)

Chapter 1

I groan as my alarm screeches. I really need a new alarm clock, or a new school schedule. One that involves not going, preferably.

" Ariel! Breakfast is ready ", my mum calls out.

" Yeah, Ari ", my elder brother says, " school awaits. "

" Don't remind me ", I mutter, and head for the bathroom.

I hear him talk and laugh with mum and dad. I sigh.

My brother has the perfect life. He's a straight A student, captain of the basketball team, student body president and heartthrob. Yes, he has perfect blue eyes, great hair, a better smile and an amazing personality.

Enter me, Ariel, his less attractive younger sister. Short, mousy brown hair, wearing glasses, quiet, bordering on boring. At least, I have my blue eyes.

My mum tells me every time that I am fearfully and wonderfully made ,but I say that that is just code for "beauty isn't all that matters ".

I dress up in a just above the knee, sleeveless gown and wear my sweater over it.

I go down the stairs to eat.

" Good morning, mum. Morning, dad. ", I say, seating at the table.

My mum smiles at me and brings a bowl of cereal, " How's God's champion this morning? "

" Wishing school was cancelled ", I say, digging in.

" Ah", dad says, "the student mantra. Don't worry, you're almost done. "

" Dad, I'm just starting the tenth grade. "

" You'll be out before you even know it", he assures and kisses my forehead, " Love you, champ."

" Jason, watch out for your sister, will you? I don't want any young men around her. "

I snort, " No problem there."

Jason ignores me and nods at dad.

" Let's pray ", mum reminds us.

We huddle up,bow our heads and hold hands. I feel the peace surround me, like it usually does during prayer. I feel God's presence, and I can tell He's here, and He's happy with us. I am so happy I'm a christian. It makes me wonder why others aren't like that.

Jason and I enter dad's car to school. I am so nervous and I'm even more scared. My only friend from middle school, Jeanette, followed her missionary parents to France. So, I'm basically on my own.

Jason smiles at me, " You'll be fine, champ. "

I nod, not wanting him to worry about me.. He has a lot in his plate already, without me adding to it.

The school comes into view, "Everest High". The school mascot, an eagle, is jumping about, and cheerleaders are squealing and laughing. I relax, maybe things won't be so bad.

A cheerleader sees my brother and I as we approach.

" Hi Jay ", she says, her white teeth sparkling.

" Hi Felicity ", he says, " how are you? "

" I'm good. And who is this? "

He smiles, " My little sister, Ariel."

" Hi! ", she says, " welcome to Everest High. Hope you like it. "

" Thanks ", I mutter, blushing.

I'm pretty shy, unfortunately.

" Hey, I'll see you in class ", Jason says.

" Bye, Jason ", the cheerleaders call and giggle.

He nods and we continue in. People are everywhere, talking, laughing, yelling. Almost everyone stops to greet Jason, and a lot of girls giggle when he answers back.