As the days went by, Amanda continued to try and break through Victoria`s reserve. One afternoon, while they were working on a group project, Amanda attempted to lighten the mood up.
She started doing impressions of their quirky teacher, Mr Johnson, making Victoria`s stoic expression crack slightly. Amanda seized the moment, launching into an exaggerated rendition of Mr Johnson`s signature dance move.
Victoria`s laughter caught her off guard, and she giggled, quickly covering her mouth. Amanda grinned, thrilled to have finally cracked Victoria`s tough exterior.
However, their group mates started snickering, and soon the whole class was in stiches. Mr Johnson, oblivious to the commotion, continued teaching. Amanda`s antics had unintended consequences, though- she accidentally knocked over her water bottle, spilling it all over their project.
Victoria`s laughter turned to exasperation as she helped Amanda clean up the mess.
"You`re something else, Amanda."
Amanda chuckled, relieved.
"Hey, at least I made you laugh!"
As they worked together, Victoria`s guard dropped slightly, and Amanda sensed a budding friendship. But little did she know, Victoria`s past still lingered, waiting to surface...