The bus was crowded. He tried looking for the familiar face but did not see it. He stood near the back, one hand on the strap, head tipped against the pole with his eyes closed for a moment. His muscles felt fine. Sleep tugged at him but didn't win.
At the school gate, the guard gave him a quick nod. He walked inside, switched his expression to the one students wore at 7:00 a.m., and made his way to Class Two and took his seat. Thoma glanced over.
"You look like you didn't sleep," he said, too loudly.
"Homework," Roman replied.
"Must be killer homework," he said, then flinched when Roman looked at him. "Okay, shutting up."
He took out his book and pretended to read.
Through the window, he saw Class Twelve filing into the hallway. Eli walked with his bag strap in his hand and his head slightly down, as usual. Marcus talked to him waving his arms dramatically. Eli listened and nodded.
