First day teaching

Twenty-eight pairs of eyes staring at me. I had lesson plans. I had materials. I had practiced my introduction in the mirror six times. None of it mattered. A kid in the third row asked 'Are you nervous?' and I said 'Terrified.' They laughed. Not at me — with me. After that, everything was easier. One girl stayed behind to tell me I was her favourite teacher already. I've been her teacher for forty-five minutes.