[Mandy's Diary at Senior Grade]
"Mandy?"
I didn't answer Justin's call, hiding behind a water tank and looking out over the city of Long Beach from up here. Usually, if I want to be alone and pensive avoiding crowds, this place is the solution. And somehow Justin knew I was here—unless he followed me.
I bent my legs, hugged him tightly, and rested my chin on my knees.
"Mandy, I know you're hiding out there."
Again I didn't answer, just observing the atmosphere of the town of Long Beach down there. The sun was slightly obscured by bits of cloud, making it silvery and subdued so I didn't have to squint at the heat. Luckily it was early spring, so it wasn't too hot.
Without glancing to the side, I can see Justin standing next to me, then crouching down to look at me. I took a deep breath, looking away reluctantly to look at him. He persisted in ignoring my attitude, then moved closer and sat next to me.
