A New Trend

When lunch finally rolled around, I was beyond ready. I also had a better idea how to find my way to the cafeteria today. Zoe and Peter were kissing at the bottom of one set of stairs as I made my way down. They stopped when I passed.

I waved, embarrassed. "Hey guys. Didn't mean to interrupt."

They pulled apart, though they took the other's hand. "Jackie. It's nice to see you. How's your second day been treating you?"

"Uh." I pulled at the end of my braid, twisting it around a finger.

"What's this?" Zoe asked, indicating the wilted leaf in my hair.

"It's peppermint." I touched it lightly.

Zoe and Peter gave each other a strange look. I had the feeling they were communicating.

Peter patted my shoulder. "What a great idea." He leaned in to smell it.

"Yes, it is," Zoe said. "I think I'll wear some in my hair tomorrow, if that's okay."

"Sure." Maybe I would start a new trend.

They each took one of my arms. We went down the remaining steps and into the cafeteria like that. As soon as