Meeting of Two Worlds

Reagan glanced up from his browsing as the bell rang over the entrance to the bookstore. Puzzled, he watched for a minute as Darya advanced toward the counter as if to ask a question. It didn’t make sense that Darya, one of the school’s top athletes, was in a bookstore. Not wanting to be noticed, Reagan quickly found another volume to peruse. He wouldn’t know what to say if she tried to start a conversation. Reagan let his thoughts wander a bit, thinking it would be nice to have someone to talk to or hang out with. Then he wouldn’t be so lonely.

“Hey, Reagan.” Her greeting startled him, and his breath caught in his throat as it became apparent he hadn’t escaped after all. “Maybe you can help me.”

He doubted it, but he managed to choke out a reply. “Me?”

“I’m trying to locate a book on soccer skills. I won’t be able to go to camp over spring break, and I need to improve my game before the next season begins.”

Reagan swallowed, then motioned randomly with his hands before he found his voice. “Sure. Over here.”

He figured it would save hassle and confusion if he just led the way, rather than try to point her in the right direction. As she followed him through the stacks, he dared to imagine they might not be so different after all. He felt a brief glimmer of hope, the sun shining suddenly where all had been gray. Immediately, one of Darya’s teammates seemed to materialize, urging her to finish any purchases or they would be late for practice.

Sighing, Reagan realized nothing had really changed; society would never let them break down those barriers, even if they so chose.