Chapter 2

“There are three main types of cytoskeletal polymer: actin filaments, microtubules and a group of polymers known collectively as intermediate filaments. Together, what do these polymers control?” It was an easy question, with a really simple answer. But honestly I just couldn’t care enough to answer Mr. Gómez Borobia. Yeah sure he was nice but I just don’t care anymore. Just like them. Just like when I was walking in the hallway and received pity glances, some looked the other way hopping that I hadn’t noticed the way theirs eyes would look to the floor as I walked past them and when I passed them they would turn around,others would whisper and look at me and judge, a few laughed but nobody gave a flying fuck. So I don’t. 

“Anyone? Come on guys this one is a present” Mr. Gómez Borobia says, his eyes scanning the room until finally they land on me, I look at the textbook like I’m searching for the answer. “Viviana” he calls out my name and I softly curse. Everyone’s eyes are on me as I open my mouth to speak when someone in my class says “careful professor she might sue you for sex talking in class” I look down to my lap and start fidgeting with my fingers feeling the tears come out I force them to go back inside. “Be respectful on my class Jason or you might be found crying at your house after I tell you what I really think about you as a person. Now Viviana please answer” I look into his eyes again and start explaining “Well these polymers control the shape and mechanics of eukaryotic cells, the polymerization and depolymerization of actin filaments and microtubules generate directed forces that drive changes in cell shape and, together with molecular motors that move along the actin filaments and microtubules, guide the organization of cellular components.” He looks at me and then nods “Thanks Viviana it seems to be that you pay attention in class unlike others” he says throwing a final glance at the rest of the class when he adds “This is the end of the class, remember that the final is next week, you are all dismissed”

I stand up and begin to collect my stuff and put it in my backpack when suddenly Mr. Gómez Borobia catches my attention 

“Viviana, the principal told me to tell you that you have to go to the office as soon as you can, possibly now” he says “and good job today in class” and he just goes away. I stand there looking at the direction that he left, why would he say that? Have I done anything wrong? Why would the principal want to see me?

I walk towards the principal office with my head bent down, ignoring the dirty stares and the whispers. I come to face the principal’s office door, take a deep breath, and raise my hand to knock twice. “Come in” the principal says, I open the door and close it behind me, she points to the chair and I take a seat, she’s beautiful, straight blonde hair and stormy blue eyes. My hands begin to sweat in nervous anticipation of what she has to say. She opens her mouth and starts speaking with an icy tone and a serious face “Good morning Viviana, you are an exemplary student, however there is a problem. I’m going to keep this simple, you’re expelled”