Ice Cream

Nothing in class was particularly interesting that day. Danny stared out the window.

First day of summer, but it didn’t feel any different. Another perfect blue sky afternoon.

His mom loved to talk about the weather. He never understood why, but every morning, she’d give him a full report before he left the house.

"76 and sunny, sweetheart."
"Another beautiful day. I think it’s going to be 76 degrees."
"71 and a little overcast, Danny. Bring a hoodie."

This morning, she kissed his forehead. "76 and sunny for the first day of summer! Here." She pressed five dollars into his palm. "Buy some ice cream after school."

He pocketed the money and thanked her. He knew she couldn’t afford it. He also knew it would hurt her feelings if he said no.

His teacher droned on. Eighth grade would be over in five days, then he’d go visit his dad until August. It stayed light so late at the lake, they could swim until nine.

Ten more minutes until the bell. He tried to focus.

"Express log₃(x) - log₃(2) as a single logarithm."

But all he could think about was the fiver in his back pocket. And what flavor he’d get.

Then—gunfire.

Everyone froze.

The fake shots blared through the PA system again. Always louder than necessary.

A drill.

They ducked under their desks, just like they’d practiced. Lights off. No one spoke.

From where he was hiding, he could still see a sliver of blue sky. The tip of a bird’s wing as it flew past.

Peanut Butter Chip, he decided. With sprinkles.