The teacher briefly leaves the room. Class discussion erupts.

Mark: “You’re so ugly.”
Lucy: “I know.”

Everyone laughs. Feeling humiliated, Lucy quickly smiles, hoping that the sudden twist of her lips will prevent a deluge of tears. Teacher returns. Class once again silent, although Lucy can still hear that laughter.

Linda Nathaniel is a teacher from Sydney, Australia, who has had a play go from page to stage and poems published around the globe.