Page 83 - The Mending Season

stepped back to make room in front ofher as if she was going to push back the sand at her feet and lunge forward in a moment. The teachers words meant nothing to her.“Veronica, I asked you a question!” the teacher screeched.Beths sobs intensified. Someone came up from behind her; it was Laura, putting her hands on Beths shoulders, protect­ ing her. The teacher said, “Laura, take her to Mrs Allisons office.” She said “Laura” so sweetly, in a way that separated Laura from Veronica, like she was saying, “Laura, my child. You, the sweet one.”Laura hugged Beth before taking her away. “Come, Bethy. Its OK,” she said, without looking up at Veronica.My knees wobbled and I felt unsteady. The ball was still at my feet. I considered sitting on it. Veronicas back was to me, so I had no idea what her face looked like, but I knew she was not crying. She stood defiantly. She was still looking in the direction of that empty spot where Beths face had been. She was not finished with her.“Vies, a reye”Trish said.The other Black girls joined her.“Vies, mo tlogele.”“Lets go, leave her, lets go,” they were saying in soothingtones.“And SPEAK English! This is an English MediumSchool!”yelled the teacher at the faces around her.“OK, Miss, ei\ Relax!” Some girls responded. They had no use for what she was saying. Their main concern wasVeronica.“Vies?” they tried again, but all that Veronica did was turnto watch Beth leave.The teacher turned to the rest of the class and I thoughtshe wanted to ask us something but she only told us to go and change and return to the classroom.I hesitated before stepping forward. “Miss,”I started.83