I had explained countless times in my previous life, but no one cared.
The teacher glanced at my paper in shock and asked in confusion, "Kristi, I didn't say you were the one who did it. Why are you so excited?"
I realize my own gaffe.
On the side, Avery clenched her fists with her knuckles turning white and looked at me with eyes full of resentment.
Andreas also looked at me with disappointment.
What? Just because my family was the poorest, I, Kristi Lester, deserved to clean up your mess and take the blame for you?!
After the exam, the teacher announced he would conduct a thorough investigation and deal strictly with any cheaters. Then, without another word, he folded the note, tucked it into his notebook and walked out of the room.
I packed my things and was about to go back to the classroom from the exam room, but someone grabbed my arm and pulled me back.
Andreas was very strong and he pulled me to the corner of the stairs without paying any attention to other people's eyes.
Avery followed, with big tears dripping from her eyes.
"Kristi, you are my best friend. You clearly know it's me, why are you doing this to me?"
I pretended not to understand and asked, "Ah? Avery, what did you say? So, is it you?"
Avery stamped her feet in anger as she explained, "I threw that note to Andreas, you clearly saw it!"
“I didn’t see it.”
Avery wanted to say something but was stopped by Andreas.
He patted Avery's back gently and used his eyes to reassure her.
Then he looked at me seriously as he said, "Kristi, I don't care whether you did it on purpose or not. You are the one who caused the trouble. Now the note is in the teacher's hand. I will give you two choices.
"First, go to the teacher and admit it. Think about how to explain it yourself.
"Second, steal the note. I only give you one day, you have to solve it before school is over, otherwise Avery will not be able to sleep well tonight because of you."
Andreas gave me orders in a serious manner.
His current appearance could no longer be the same as when he was a child, when every New Year he would steal two candies from home and give one to me, wishing for a better future.
When did it start to change?
Two years ago, Avery's father was transferred to a factory next to our town as Deputy Director.
So, Avery also transferred to our class. That was the first time Andreas and I met Avery.