Just a little story

Isabel had waited by my locker.
Dirty glances were sent my way. Nobody liked me-they all hated me.
Isabel asked as I placed my books in my locker, "Chris, what's wrong?"
Wow. She knew me so well.
"My mom had another breakdown."
"What was it this time?"
I picked up my pre-algebra book and shoved it into my backpack. "Me."
She sighed and ran her hand through her dyed violet hair. "Don't beat yourself up, Chris."
She lay a hand on my shoulder and added, "You're special to me."
I glanced up at her. Violet hair, blue eyes, that smile, the way she looked at me-
I shook myself from my thoughts. Standing up, I slung my bag onto my back. I turned so she wouldn't see my tears.
Too late.
She caught my shoulder and held me there until everyone had gone to class. Then she gently asked, "What's wrong?"
I stared at her. She stared back and I said, "It's been 4 years since my dad died. I just think my mom could pull herself together and take care of me."
She hugged me and said, "Chris, you've got to understand how hard it is for your mom. She lost her husband."
I nodded and she came out of the hug and grasped my arms.
"Chris, your mom is doing the best she can,"
She smiled at me and added,
"And you matter to me."
With that, she kissed my cheek and walked off toward her fourth bell class. I stared after her.
Did that just happen? I felt my cheek-where she kissed me. I could still smell her shampoo.
I was so happy, I didn't care about the detention I got for being late to class. I was floating on air.
The girl of my dreams liked me too.

Notes