The girl watched with a smile at the sight of the young teacher trying to calm her class down. After another warning about the proposed class detention, the whole population of about 35 settled in their seats, waiting expectantly at the frazzled teacher.

“Thank you, Lord knows what they feed you kids these days…and I must be getting on…” The teacher kidded as the class burst in small groans of “You’re not that old.”

“Enough with the sucking up, your reports have been written and sealed already.” She was met with several groans. “Yeah, yeah, boo-hoo. Now I want to introduce someone to you today. Come in Sarah.”

The girl gingerly took two steps forward, revealing herself to the waiting eyes. She turned her large violet eyes to meet those of the whole class.

“This is Sarah Tomelty. She’s from-”

“I’m sure Sarah can talk Ms. Lang!” a boy joked out aloud.

Ms. Lang smiled, turning to Sarah. “All right then, Sarah, would you like to do the honours?”

Sarah smiled as she walked further into the classroom. She opened her mouth and started in her soft voice.

“I wouldn’t consider introducing myself as an honour…but I guess it wouldn’t hurt to try.” The soft, shy voice laughed and a few chuckles rose from the crowd. Yes, some of them were beginning to like her already.

“I’m from San Francisco, my mom and I moved down here a week ago-”

“Hey, that’s right, I saw you at the grocery store a few days ago didn’t I?” A girl with long fiery hair interrupted from the centre. Sarah turned her gaze to the red head, and her eyes lit in recognition.

“The vegetable aisle?” the girl nodded. “Yeah…you had your little brother with you.” The girl nodded again, somewhat proud in having met the foreigner first.

“Okay, enough chit chat, let’s get down to it. Sarah, you have a seat vacant right there, between Julienne and Chris. Everyone feel free to show Sarah around, show her some of that Tulsa warmth huh?” The teacher grinned, pointing to an empty seat.

All eyes were focused on Sarah as she made her way towards the third row of seats. She intrigued them, this new girl with her unusual violet eyes and chocolate strands. They watched her every move as she gently placed her bag beside her seat, and lowered herself down, offering a shy smile to her new classmates. It was only when the teacher spoke again that they were able to take their attention away from her.

More to come!