Cooperate

“Well?” Mrs. Kunt inquired.

“I guess I don’t really have any other option,” I admitted hesitantly.

“It’ll be okay, John. I’ve given Tiffany a note explaining the circumstances, so you shouldn’t get in any trouble for any… unusual… exposure. Besides, the student body here is very understanding and considerate of these sort of things, as I’m sure you know. Why, are the students in this classroom making a big deal out of this?” She gestured widely at the class, many of whom were still watching the drama unfold.

“I suppose not,” I replied, unsure of what else to say.

“Well, enough of this discussion. Go on now, both of you. Make sure Mr. John gets to the nurses office unscathed, Tiffany.” She waved us out dismissively as she sat down at her desk and resumed grading papers.

“Yes Mrs. Kunt,” Tiffany said, almost in a characteristically teacher’s pet sort of voice. She looked at me, and took my hand. “Come on, John lets’ go.”

Tiffany led me out into the Western Wing hallway, in which our classroom was situated at the furthest end. As if the building was designed specifically with this one humiliating moment for me in mind, the nurses office was in the furthest end of the Eastern Wing, the exact opposite side of the fairly enormous building. It hadn’t struck me just how far I’d be “exposing” myself until I stepped into the hall.

“Dammit,” I said to myself.

Tiffany stepped out of the class room after me, carefully closing the door behind her as to not let it slam. “What?” she asked, hearing my half-muttered expression of frustration.

“Nothing…” I said in reply, just wanting to get this over with.

“Well come on, then,” Tiffany said, taking my hand and leading me down the hall.