The day’s end
As the clock inched toward the end of the day, I gathered my belongings, the weight of yet another long day pressing heavily on my shoulders. The rain tapped steadily on the roof, echoing the rhythm of my mood. Letting out a deep sigh, I made my way to the exit, feeling a quiet relief at the thought of heading home. Outside, the world was shrouded in a damp, gray haze, perfectly mirroring my state of mind. One thought lingered as I walked away: “One more day behind me.”

The Day’s End
Taunting outside
After school, the boy stood outside, surrounded by his loyal group of friends. The rain had eased to a drizzle, but the sky remained heavy and overcast. Spotting me, he shouted, “Hey, janitor!” His tone was laced with mockery. I stopped, tightening my grip on the mop handle. Laughter rippled through the group, their breath curling into the cold air like faint wisps of smoke. I held my ground, bracing myself for whatever might come next.

Taunting Outside