Day: Monday

Main Character: Sam

I stare down at my desk, trying to ignore the looks and whispers.  My only friend, Sarah, sits next to me.

"What are your pronouns today?"  she asks.

"She/her,"  I answer.

"That's good."

I look at her.  "What?"

"Well isn't it easier for you on girl days?"  she replies.  "Since you were born a girl and all?"

My hand grips the side of the table tightly.  "And have everyone wonder if I've 'gotten better' or something?"

Her grin falters for a second, before coming back up.  "But at least you don't have to deal with binders and stuff, right?  Not to mention people who already knew you before you came out are more likely to get the pronouns right."

"So you prefer it because it's easier for you?"  I reply through gritted teeth.

"Well you have to admit, it is a little bit easier."  Sarah just shrugs dismissively.  "But people who didn't know you before you came out will probably still misgender you.  Maybe if you let me do your makeup people wouldn't misgender you as much.  Maybe some pink eyeliner, and-"

I glare at her.  "Just because I'm a girl today doesn't mean I want to be completely feminine!  It doesn't mean I suddenly want to look just like the women on those magazines or anything!"

"I'm just saying it would be easier-"

"Shut up!"  I shout, standing up abruptly, accidently knocking over my desk.  Everyone stares at me, and I look around in panic before running out of the room as fast as I can.

I hear Sarah and the teacher calling after me, but I don't stop.