Emma Moves In

Chapter Ten

At school on Monday, Emma couldn’t stop thinking about her issues with Caitlin. She is sure that there’s something nice about her, but Emma hasn’t seen it yet.

In gym class, Emma gets the chance to think less and just be present. She chases after the soccer ball and scores a goal. Natalia congratulates her. But after everybody else left the field, Caitlin comes up to her and sneers “Show off.” Emma knows that telling Natalia what Caitlin said will make her feel forced to choose between the two of them. So she has to try another approach to solve the problem.

In class, Mr. Thomas says they’re splitting up into groups of four to work on a class project. Emma is given the chance to choose her partners. Against all odds, she chooses Natalia, Zoe, and Caitlin to all work together.

When they get to the library, Emma asks Caitlin if she has a problem with Emma. Caitlin responds that Emma’s a show off about the books in English, and in gym class. Natalia and Zoe jump to defend Emma; being good at sports is just what Emma does, and she can’t help it if she’s already read the books before. Caitlin makes a sour face and when the bell rings, walks away without a word.