The next day, classes for Grade 11 Science 3 proceeded as usual. When Chemistry class began, Ms. Lestari was explaining the lesson at the front of the room while the students busily took notes.
Stella and Mayra sat side by side, listening to their teacher's explanation. Suddenly, both of their phones, lying on top of their desks, vibrated at almost the same time.
Stella glanced briefly at her phone screen. There was a new notification in the Student Council group.
The Student Council meeting starts now. All Student Council members are asked to report immediately.
Stella immediately showed the message to Mayra. Mayra read it quickly. “Wait, the meeting’s now?” she whispered. Stella nodded slowly. “Probably because so many people were absent yesterday.”
A moment later, Stella stood up from her seat. “Ms. Lestari, permission,” Stella said, raising her right hand. Ms. Lestari turned from the front of the room. “Yes? What is it?” Stella answered right away. “Ms. Lestari, the two of us were called to the Student Council room for a meeting.” Ms. Lestari nodded slowly. “Do you have an excused absence?” Stella walked over to Ms. Lestari. “Yes, Ms. Lestari,” Stella replied, showing her phone screen. “All right, then you may leave,” Ms. Lestari said. “Okay, Ms. Lestari. Thank you,” Stella and Mayra answered together.
After getting permission directly from Ms. Lestari, the two of them quickly left the classroom and headed to the Student Council room.
When they arrived in front of the door, Stella stopped for a moment to fix her hair. Mayra knocked softly before opening it. The Student Council room was fairly crowded. Several members were busy with various activities, while Rayyan, the Student Council president, stood checking the attendance list.