CH 2- A HELPING HAND

                                    

                                          
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Jade winced as he cradled his wrist, the pain throbbing steadily. The classroom buzzed with concerned whispers, mingling with the scent of chalk and the cool air from the air conditioner.
"Jade, are you okay?" his teacher asked, kneeling beside him, worry etched on her face.
Lucas, always quick with a joke, quipped, "Guess that’s one way to get out of math class!"
Ethan grinned. "Yeah, man, you really went all out to avoid the test!"
Jade forced a laugh. "Desperate times call for desperate measures."
His teacher shook her head with a faint smile. "Alright, let’s get you to the hospital."
At the hospital, Jade barely registered the details as the doctor examined him. His mind was already on his cozy couch and the comforting hum of the TV at home.
Later, back on the couch, the ache in his wrist blended into the soothing clatter of dishes from the kitchen. Jade’s mom opened the door to reveal Sarah, her smile a welcome sight.
"Hi, Mrs. Miller! I came to check on Jade," Sarah said, stepping inside.
"Of course, dear. Come in."
Sarah entered the living room, where Jade lay under the soft glow of the lamps. "Hey, Mr. Adventure. How’s the hand?"
Jade managed a half-hearted smile. "Well, it’s still attached, so that’s something."
Sarah settled beside him. "So, what’s the verdict? Are you going to survive?"
"Not sure," Jade replied, glancing at his sling. "Might need to hire someone to do all my chores now."
"Good thing I’m here then," Sarah teased. "But seriously, how are you feeling?"
"Better, now that you’re here," Jade admitted, his smile finally reaching his eyes.
Sarah’s smile widened. "Well, I’m glad I’m here to help."
Jade chuckled. "Guess you’re my new favorite superhero."
Just as they were about to start a game, the door swung open, and Lucas and Ethan burst in with snacks. The playful banter about Jade’s injury lightened the mood, though Sarah looked puzzled.
Lucas nudged Ethan. "So, Jade, anything you want to tell us?"
Jade looked confused. "What are you guys talking about?"
Lucas smirked. "Oh, come on, it’s written all over your face."
Ethan nodded. "Don’t worry, your secret’s safe with us."
Sarah glanced between them, clearly puzzled. "What are you guys talking about?"
Lucas shrugged. "It’s just boy stuff, Sarah."
Jade shook his head, trying to suppress a grin. "You two need to stop reading into things that aren’t there."
"Sure, sure," Ethan said. "If you need any advice, we’re here for you."
Jade groaned but laughed. "You guys are impossible."
Mrs. Miller entered with a tray of snacks. "Sarah, why don’t you stay for dinner?"
"Oh, thank you, Mrs. Miller, but I don’t want to impose," Sarah replied.
Jade’s dad appeared in the doorway, waving her off. "Nonsense! You’re always welcome here. Besides, Jade could use some company. After dinner, you two can do your homework together—or play if you finish early."
Jade brightened. "Hey, Sarah, could you bring me the school homework? You know, so I don’t fall behind."
Sarah raised an eyebrow. "Are you actually asking me to bring you more work?"
Jade shrugged. "I mean, it’s not like I can write it myself with this hand."
Sarah laughed. "Alright, I’ll bring it. But only if you promise not to complain about it."
"Deal," Jade said, grinning as the thought of spending more time with her lightened his heart.
Mrs. Miller smiled. "And Sarah, feel free to come over after school to eat and help Jade with his homework. You can play here too."
Sarah nodded. "Of course, I’ll come by in the evening too, so you don’t get bored, Jade."
As Sarah left, Jade watched her from the window, the setting sun casting a warm glow over the neighborhood. The day’s events, mixed with laughter and company, made everything feel brighter.
With the evening approaching, Jade found himself grappling with a different kind of tension. He had been meaning to tell Sarah how he felt but hesitated. The thought of confessing his feelings both excited and terrified him. When Sarah returned that evening, he decided to speak up.
"Sarah, I wanted to tell you something," Jade began, his heart racing. 
Sarah looked at him, her expression attentive. "What is it?"
Jade opened his mouth but hesitated, his fear of how she would react clouding his resolve. "I really appreciate you being here for me. It means a lot."
Sarah smiled warmly. "I’m glad I could help."
Jade’s confession remained unspoken as he settled back into the comfort of her company. The evening promised more laughter and warmth, but his unspoken feelings lingered, adding a bittersweet edge to the comfort he found in her presence.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, Jade felt a sense of contentment and anticipation, knowing that while his feelings were still unvoiced, the moments they shared made everything else seem a bit brighter.
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