Juliana Taylor was a bit surprised. Shane Caldwell added, "Ms. Taylor, you've always taught us not to let any classmate fall behind. Vera Xavier's grades are so poor, and as class president, it's my responsibility to help her."
His reasoning was flawless, but it annoyed all the girls in the class. Elise Langdon was the first to stand up and say, "Class President, my grades aren't as good as yours either. Why don't you help me too!"
The entire class erupted in laughter.
Juliana Taylor's stern gaze swept across the room, and the class immediately fell silent. She asked Shane Caldwell, "Do you really want to help Vera Xavier?"
Shane Caldwell nodded, but Juliana Taylor hesitated. In truth, she had already given up on Vera Xavier. Shane was always first in their class, a gifted student the school was investing heavily in. She didn't want him to get distracted.
Vera Xavier stood up and said, "Ms. Taylor, I don't want to be the class president's deskmate."
