Building The Bridge To Summer Break

Star sat at her desk in Troll Academy, her tool belt jingling as she reached for another dab of glue. Her voluminous rainbow-colored hair bounced with every movement, practically brushing the ceiling of her miniature workspace. She glued popsicle sticks together, trying to distract herself from the fact that school was ending today. The classroom walls, usually covered in vibrant blueprints and architectural sketches, were completely bare. Mr. Grumble, a towering rock troll with a voice like grinding stones, packed away the building blocks. "Last day, little builders! Clear your desks!" he rumbled, sweeping a heavy hand over the chalkboard. Star's soft sage green skin felt cold. She loved Troll Academy. She loved the smell of sawdust and the daily design challenges. Staring at her half-finished popsicle stick bridge, a heavy, tight feeling blossomed in her chest. Her large purple and blue eyes watered. Summer meant no more daily building projects with her friends. She shoved her toy-sized hammer into her overalls pocket, her orange sneakers kicking the floor. The distraction wasn't working. School was over, and the sadness felt as heavy as a mountain boulder.