Chapter 20: The Waiting Game

The minutes ticked by at a glacial pace as Ashley watched her teacher, Mrs. Johnson, grade her test paper. She had always been a diligent teacher, meticulously going through each student's work, making annotations and comments along the way. Ashley's eyes were fixed on Mrs. Johnson's hands as they moved deftly, her pen scratching against the paper. Ashley sighed inwardly, her anxiety spiking with every passing moment. She had done her best, but she couldn't shake off the feeling of uncertainty that had been plaguing her since she handed in the test. Her sister's future was riding on her success, and the thought of Erica having to repeat her senior year was unbearable. As Mrs. Johnson continued to grade, Ashley's mind began to wander. She thought about all the late nights she had spent studying, all the early mornings she had woken up to cram for the test. She thought about Erica's encouraging words, her support and motivation. Ashley's heart swelled with love and gratitude for her sister, and she prayed that she would have something to be proud of. Mrs. Johnson's pen paused, and she looked up, her eyes scanning the room. Ashley felt a jolt of adrenaline as their eyes met, and she quickly looked away, trying to compose herself. Mrs. Johnson's expression was neutral, but Ashley couldn't help but wonder what she was thinking. The waiting game was agonizing. Ashley's classmates began to murmur and chat, exchanging stories and jokes. But Ashley remained silent, her eyes fixed on Mrs. Johnson as she continued to grade. The minutes ticked by, each one feeling like an eternity. Finally, Mrs. Johnson finished grading and began to compile the test results. Ashley's heart was racing as Mrs. Johnson called out the names, handing each student their paper. Ashley's name was near the end of the list, and she could feel her anxiety building with every passing moment. As Mrs. Johnson called out her name, Ashley stood up, her legs trembling slightly. She walked over to Mrs. Johnson, her eyes fixed on the paper in her hand. Mrs. Johnson smiled and handed her the paper, saying, "Good job, Ashley. You should be proud of yourself." Ashley's eyes scanned the paper, her heart racing with anticipation. She saw the grade, and her eyes widened in surprise. She had done it. She had passed. A wave of relief washed over her, and she felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. She had something to be proud of, and she couldn't wait to share the news with Erica.