Chapter 90 Defence

• I arrived ahead of him, seated on one of the seven pine benches surrounding the big oak tree in the middle of the lush strip of grass dividing the two major structures. However, the school's small courtyard was the most crowded place where students congregated during their morning break.
• The tree branches were bare and skeletal, with the remnants of fall foliage gathered around the roots. A strong wind caused them to shudder, and I had to clench my teeth to silence their chatter. Luckily, no one was around to witness the stern scowl that had become indelibly engraved on my lips.
• Five minutes after the bell for the following class rang, Tyrone slumped into the courtyard, dragging his legs along in his trademark, languid steps. I concentrated on his right hook, examining the damaged red flesh on his knuckles. At least he didn't make fun of me by bandaging the split skin with those stupid dinosaur Band-Aids he always carried about him.