Firegirl

On class election day, Tom is excited to nominate Courtney. Jeff arrives late, looking angry and skittish. Mrs. Tracy explains the criteria, then asks for nominees. Tom’s hand goes up quickly, but Jeff shouts out Courtney’s name. Tom is furious: He knows that Jeff purposefully tried to hurt him because Jeff knew about Tom’s plan to nominate Courtney. Other students are nominated. Jessica surprises Tom by nominating him. Tom feels embarrassed and ashamed and angry, as if he had been lying.

Tom realizes the only way the class will accept Jessica is if she gets more involved, and he decides to nominate her. Mrs. Tracy gives a last call for candidates. Tom says Jessica’s name, but Mrs. Tracy continues, oblivious. Tom thinks he did not say Jessica’s name out loud. He feels useless. Courtney wins the election. Tom receives one vote: Jessica’s. Tom did not vote for himself and forgot he could write in Jessica’s name. He feels like a “complete loser,” no different from the others who shun, fear, or reject Jessica. After school, Tom tries to call Jessica, but he gives up. He ignores a phone call from Jeff. Jessica calls and asks Tom to come over.