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After being suspended for a week, Beverly had been punished by her parents every single day. Not only did she have to do her everyday chores, but she had to clean her brother’s nasty room, and her parents took away Beverly’s allowance, cell phone, and social media accounts.

Her wicked mother made a video and posted it to Beverly’s Instagram and Facebook feed, telling everyone that she was on punishment because she was failing and had been suspended from school, further embarrassing her.

Her supposed-to-be best friends, Carrie and Samantha, had yet to reach out to her or even comment on her posts. She checked the few times she was able to get to the library for “studying.”

Now she stood behind them and watched Carrie gloat with Sicily for reasons unknown to her.

“Yes. It was a routine check-up.”

“Great. We have room at our lunch table if you’d like to join us from here on out.”

Sicily’s expression, along with Samantha and Beverly’s brows, arched in surprise. “Since when?”

“Since now.”

“Why?”

“You’re cool. I didn’t know that until we got a chance to get to know each other at the Boys & Girls Club. So, it’s only right you take your place with the cool kids.” Carrie turned to Samantha. “Right?”

“Right,” Samantha agreed, smiling.

“Wrong,” Beverly interjected.

All eyes turned to Beverly. “Excuse me, no one was asking you,” Carrie said.

Beverly frowned. “You asked Samantha.”

“Yeah. But I didn’t ask you. The cool kids pass their classes and don’t get suspended. That would not be you.”

Beverly’s brows furrowed more, and she scowled.

“Don’t worry. I’m sure you’ll find your place with the losers.”

“Hey!” Carla interrupted. All eyes turned to Carla.

“I’m just keeping it real, Ms. Jones.”

“You’re acting mean. And that was not cool. So, tell me again how much of a cool kid you are.”

Carrie sighed. “You’re right.” She looked back at Beverly. “I apologize, Beverly. There’s still no room for you at our table, but I am sorry.”

Carrie tugged Sicily, coaching her to walk in sync with Carrie, and Samantha followed as they found seats in the front of the class.

Carla exhaled woefully. What was she going to do with this one?

Beverly twirled around and stomped out of the classroom.

Carla left her seat and went after her. “Ms. Moore, where are you going?”

“I’m out of here!”

At her locker, Beverly shoved her books inside, then slammed the metal container shut.

“Look, I know that was uncalled for by Carrie, and I’ll pull her aside again and reprimand her, but you can’t leave. If you do, I’ll be forced to give you detention.”

“Do whatever you want! You’ve already ruined my life!”

“How have I ruined your life? Please, don’t be so dramatic.”