Dear diary, my teacher doesn’t like her.

I don’t understand why another person thinks Penelope is any less than awesome, but after talking with my math teacher today, I’m starting to think it’s because she’s too awesome.

I had just taken my midday tablet down at the office when I ran into Mr Hollow. “Emma, I’m glad I caught you out of class.”

“Is something wrong?”

“You tell me. I’ve seen the way other students treat you in my classroom, and from some chats with other teachers, I’ve found out it’s the same in theirs. We’ve got a no bullying policy here. If you’ve had any problems, it is okay for you to tell us.”

I know he was talking about Thomas and Sadie, but what could he really do? The last time I had a sympathetic teacher, that teacher ended up being targeted by parents and had to change schools. Then the other kids just got worse.

I smiled. “There isn’t any problem, Mr Hollow. I’m sure that once I prove that I am smart, then they’ll stop thinking differently. I think that they’re just a little too honest. Plus, it’s not like everyone has to like me. That’d be silly.”

“If you’re determined to prove them wrong, then take a look at our school’s tutoring program run by graduated students.”

“Thank you, but I’ve already got a tutor. My neighbour Penelope has been helping me with my homework. Because of her, I understand and have memorised all the formulas we’ve looked at this term.”

“Does she have any teaching experience?”

“I don’t think so. She’s studying to work as a CSI.”

“Well, it’s good to see that you’ve sought help with your math. Most are too proud to admit when they need a little help from time to time.”

“Oh, Penelope isn’t just helping me with math. She’s helping with all my subjects. I don’t think there’s any topic she doesn’t have a textbook on.” I noticed his frown. “I’m still the one doing the work. She just shows me how using different examples and gets me to practise a bunch.”

“What was her last name?”

I thought back to our second meeting. “Smith. She’s Penelope Smith.”

“Of course, she is,” he mumbled, but I don’t think I was meant to hear.

“You know her?”

“We’ve met.” He checked his watch. “The next time you find yourself struggling with in my class, please know that it’s okay to ask for help. I don’t want you to think that everyone has to be at the same level in my classroom or feel like you’re not allowed to get an answer wrong.”

“Thanks, Mr Holland.”

At the time, I didn’t realise just how much he dislikes Penelope. But then I might have purposely overheard a phone call that Mr Holland was having during second break. I had a chance to walk away so I wouldn’t be invading his privacy, but what he said caught my attention so I sort of stayed, and listened to the whole one-sided conversation.

“She’s still here. I thought you told me that Penelope had left… Well, obviously you were wrong… No, I’m not overreacting. She made me look like an idiot after I reported her… How was I meant to know she was-…? She’s tutoring one of my students… They’re my responsibility… Well, yes, but that-… Okay, fine. I guess the best I can do is make sure she’s not needed anymore. Thanks, Cindy. I’m sorry for blaming you.”

I ran away before he could see me. I’m not sure whether I should talk to Penelope about this or not. I didn’t say anything this afternoon, but maybe I should mention it. But would she explain what happened between her and Mr Holland or would she just change the topic or something? What if there’s a really bad memory attached to it? I could be dragging it up by asking. I’ll keep quiet for now. If it comes up again then I’ll talk to her.