GENESIS

“Are you okay, Genesis?” Miss Melissa’s voice reached me, and I immediately looked up at her. She looked worried, but I forced a quick nod—even though that was far from true.

My stomach was hurting badly. I could barely sit still, and it felt like I was about to throw up.

“You’re definitely not fine—you look pale,” she said, reaching out to place her hand on my forehead. She held it there for a few moments before pulling away.

“You’re not burning up, that’s a good sign. But can you tell me where it hurts? Because I know you’re in pain, and don’t lie to me.”

I shifted in...