Chapter 26: Cockroach (1)
Because of the rise of the so-called “space craze,” lately—whether on television, in newspapers, or on the radio—there have been all sorts of reports and popular-science segments about space exploration.
Not long ago, Everly happened to hear on the radio that, contrary to common stereotypes, the vast majority of meteorites are composed of minerals such as iron, nickel, and silicates. Only a very small fraction contain radioactive substances, and even when they do, the level of radiation is extremely low—not much higher than that of the natural gemstones people wear every day.
After hearing that, she became rather interested in meteorites.
It just so happened that today was Saturday, so there was no school. With nothing better to do anyway, Everly went thud thud thud down the stairs, let Old John know, then took the dog, Buddy, by the leash and ran off together toward where the crowd had gathered.
When she got close, she spotted several classmates from school at a glance among the onlookers. Everly instantly wiped the curiosity off her face, slowed her pace, and pretended she was merely strolling past, walking over with a blank expression.
She really did have a serious idol image to maintain.
“Hey, good morning, Everly.”
A second-year student in the crowd was the first to notice her and enthusiastically greeted her.
Naturally, the noble “Ice Queen” was not about to open her mouth to return a greeting to a commoner.