Olivia Blackburns rolled her eyes and yawned as she sat down from the Pledge of Allegiance Rituals. 

As her ELA teacher began calling role, Olivia sunk down deeper into her seat and let her mind drift. 

Yesterdays cross-country race had been a hit. She'd come in at 9:58 and medaled in 3rd place. The medal now sat on her chest, hanging by a white-orange ribbon. The light catching on the medal reflected off, demanding to be seen. And seen it would be. 

She caught Taylor Irwin staring from across the classroom and straightened up, smoothing out her crisp Bluejay Pride XC jacket. 

The teacher finished roll, just as a loud ding came from the intercom. Mrs. Gauzy, the secretary, began speaking. 

"Would the following students come down to the gym for pictures, please? These following students are the September Students of the month."

Olivia perked up, as Mrs. Gauzy continued. 

"Grant Michell, Jasmine Hoemann, Amanda Struckerburg, Landen Debrucker, Sam Fox, Elizabeth Gillete, Ashley Creek, Olivia Blackburns, Damien Craw, -"

Olivia stopped listening once her name was called and eyed her red headed best friend from across the classroom. Jasmine finally stood up and raced up to her for a high five. 

As they passed other rows kids were whispering things like "Great Job." and reaching out for high fives and clapping. 

Olivia casually flipped her hair into Taylor Irwins face, which had been staring crossly at her the whole time, the one person not cheering. 

As they exited the classroom, Olivia glanced through the door window just in time to see Taylor jump up in her desk, spilling her open water bottle all over her chromebook, notebook, desk, and even a neighboring classmate, who screeched.

Olivia turned and ran to catch up with Jasmine, smiling like a fool.