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Author's Note:This is a virus story. I actually came up with the concept of it in 2020, I'm sure you know why. I didn't write it then. I actually wrote this one about 5-6 months ago but sat on it for a long time. I almost didn't post it because it felt gloomy to me. This story is also partially inspired by a Korean show called All of Us Are Dead. I'm also pretty certain other authors have used a virus called "GB" but this is not meant to be in the same universe as any of those.
 

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It was a typical Tuesday morning at Middleborough High School. The math teacher, Mrs. Green, had been droning on about algebra for what felt like hours, her voice echoing off the stale walls and dusty chalkboard. Fourteen-year-old Alex Castellanos was trying his best to stay awake, his pencil tapping a rhythm on the desk that matched the ticking of the ancient clock above the door. His eyes felt like they were glued shut with every blink, and his mind kept drifting to the sweet escape of the upcoming weekend.

In the middle of Mrs. Green's lecture on quadratic equations, a sudden coughing fit erupted from the back of the classroom. Alex looked up, his curiosity piqued. It was Tyler, the school's star quarterback, his face reddening as he tried to stifle the hacking sounds. Mrs. Green paused, her eyes narrowing as she glared over her glasses at the disturbance. Tyler stood up, his six-foot frame towering over the small desks, and excused himself to the bathroom, his friends snickering under their breath.

The bell finally rang, releasing the students into the chaotic symphony of the hallways. Alex gathered his books and shuffled out with the rest of the class, his thoughts still lingering on Tyler's strange behavior.

As he made his way to his locker, he noticed a group of kids huddled around Tyler, who was now visibly sweating and looking even more distressed. Alex's friend, Jenny, pushed through the crowd and whispered, "Dude, Tyler's really messed up"

Alex approached cautiously, his concern growing as he saw the normally stoic jock leaning heavily against the row of lockers. Tyler's voice, now unmistakably strained, cracked as he tried to reassure everyone he was fine. The hallway buzz grew to a murmur as whispers of "What happened to Tyler?" floated through the air.

The school nurse, Mrs. Hartman, who was known for her stern demeanor and no-nonsense attitude, emerged from her office and bustled over. After a brief conversation with the gym teacher, she instructed two of Tyler's friends to help him to the nurse's office. Alex couldn't shake the feeling that something was off, so he decided to hang back and wait outside the office, his curiosity getting the better of him.

He didn't get very far before Coach Green found him. "Alex, this isn't a good place to be bud"

Alex nodded and wandered back down the hall to his next class.

"So what they say?" asked Max, Alex's bespectacled best friend and the third member of their famous trio.

Alex shrugged. "Coach told me to leave"

"I heard Carrie West was coughing pretty bad in English too" said Jenny, her hands in the pockets of her hoodie.

Now that piqued Alex's interest. Tyler and Carrie were dating after all.

"You don't think they caught something...like the Rona...do you?"

Alex laughed. That was ten years ago, the world was better prepared for outbreaks now. At least that's what they kept saying in science class and on TV.

But the whispers grew louder as the day went on. More and more kids started leaving class, their faces a mix of confusion and fear. By midday, the classrooms were practically empty, and the rumor mill was in overdrive. Alex couldn't ignore it anymore. He texted Tyler, but there was no response. The last message Tyler had sent was a series of confused emojis and a photo of his hand, now covered in a bizarre rash.

At lunch, the cafeteria was only half full.

Alex found Max and Jenny sitting at their usual table, this time joined by Marcus Jones, one of Tyler's teammates.

"Dude you hear from Tyler at all?" asked a concerned Marcus when Alex sat down.

He showed the three of them the text he got from Tyler earlier.

"What the hell is up with his hand?"

"Look at his nails" Jenny pointed out.

Alex zoomed in on the photo. Tyler's nails were definitely longer? The rash looked like it was spreading up his forearm, too. Before he could say anything, a new text popped up on the screen from his Mom:

**Mom:** "Alex, what's going on at school? Is it something serious?"

Alex's thumbs danced over the phone screen as he relayed the morning's events. His mother's response was swift and firm: "Stay put. I'm coming to get you."

The trio exchanged worried glances as Alex tucked his phone away. The cafeteria's usual cacophony of laughter and chatter had been replaced by hushed tones and the occasional sound of a phone buzzing.

"This is freaky," Max murmured, pushing his glasses up his nose. "What could be happening?"

Alex's eyes darted to the clock. "Mom said she's on her way. Let's just wait and see."

But waiting was the last thing Alex could do. The whispers grew into a roar as the news spread through the school: Tyler and several others had been quarantined in the nurse's office, and no one knew why. Alex's phone vibrated again. It was his mom, with an update. Her text sent shivers down their spines:

**Mom:** "Alex, the school is being quarantined. No one is allowed to leave. There's a medical emergency."

Alex's heart skipped a beat as he read the text. Quarantined? A medical emergency? What could be so serious?

With trembling hands, he texted his mother back, trying to keep his panic in check. **Alex:** "Mom, what's going on? Is it like... a new virus or something?"

Her response took a painfully long time to come through. **Mom:** "Alex, stay calm. Yes, it appears to be a new virus. It's all over the news. No one knows anything for sure yet, but it's affecting a few students at school. Stay put, don't touch anything, and keep your distance."

Just as Alex was about to ask another question, the school's intercom crackled to life, interrupting the hushed whispers.

**Principal Hargrove:** "Attention Middleborough High School students and staff. This is Principal Hargrove. I know there are many rumors circulating right now, but I want to assure you that we are taking every precaution. We are currently experiencing an unprecedented medical situation. A few of our students have exhibited symptoms of a new virus. We are working closely with the CDC and local health officials to ensure everyone's safety."

**School Nurse Peterson:** "As of now, we are asking all students and staff to remain in their classrooms. Do not attempt to leave the school. We will be providing updates as soon as we have more information. Please stay calm and follow all instructions from the teachers and staff."

The principal's voice was firm but wavered with a hint of fear, and it was clear that the gravity of the situation had finally hit home. Alex, Max, Marcus and Jenny exchanged terrified glances, the color draining from their faces. The cafeteria, which had been buzzing with whispers and worried murmurs, now fell silent.

Mrs. Peterson stepped into the cafeteria, her usually stern face etched with concern. "Listen up, everyone," she called out, her voice carrying over the quiet room. "As Principal Hargrove said, we are dealing with a new virus. We need you all to remain calm and follow the instructions of the teachers and staff."

The cafeteria was a tableau of fearful faces, with some students openly crying and others clutching onto their friends. Alex, Max, Marcus, and Jenny huddled together, their lunches forgotten. The nurse's eyes scanned the room before landing on them. She walked over, her shoes squeaking against the linoleum floor.

"What's going on?" Alex asked, his voice small.

Mrs. Peterson sighed heavily, her eyes sweeping over the quartet. "We're still trying to figure that out," she admitted. "But we need to keep everyone safe. It seems to be affecting people differently, and we don't know how it's spreading."

Alex felt his stomach drop. Different symptoms? This was worse than he thought. "Is Tyler okay?" he managed to ask.

Mrs. Peterson's expression softened. "I can't give you details, but he's being taken care of."

The group nodded solemnly, the gravity of the situation sinking in. Jenny spoke up, her voice trembling. "What do we do now?"

Mrs. Peterson's gaze darted around the room before returning to them. "For now, stay put. Finish your lunch and then return to your last period classes. We're trying to keep things as normal as possible."

They didn't touch their food but the four of them complied, carrying their trays back to their empty table and sitting down. The clatter of silverware and the faint smell of disinfectant hung in the air, a stark reminder of the chaos that had enveloped their school. Alex felt his stomach churn, the uneaten food taunting him.

The bell rang, a mournful toll that signaled the end of lunch and the start of their next period. The trio plus Marcus stood up, their legs wobbly from a mix of fear and adrenaline. Alex cursed, his heart sinking when he realized his next class was science, which none of his friends had. He took a deep breath and nodded to them, trying to look braver than he felt.

"Stay safe guys" he said before they all split up.

Alex walked down the hallway, his footsteps echoing off the empty lockers. The posters that usually brightened the walls now seemed like sad relics of a time before fear had taken hold. He tried to put on a brave face as he stepped into the science classroom, but his knees felt like jelly. The room was a ghost town, with only a handful of students present. The teacher, Mr. Baker, looked as rattled as everyone else, his eyes bloodshot and his tie askew. He began the lesson with a forced smile, but it was clear his mind was elsewhere.

Alex took his seat at the back of the room, his thoughts racing. He couldn't stop thinking about Tyler and the other kids who had been taken away. Was it airborne? Was he next? The clock on the wall ticked away, each second feeling like an eternity.

Lost in his own thoughts, he didn't even realize someone sat next to him until she said, "Hey"

He jumped, startled and turned to see his lab partner, Alicia. Alicia Lee, a pretty Korean American girl he'd had a crush on since well he realized what crushes were. She was amazingly pretty and super smart. She was also best friends with Carrie if he remembered correctly.

"You okay?" she asked, her voice quieter than usual.

Alex nodded, trying to keep his voice steady. "Just worried about Tyler," he managed to say.

Alicia's eyes filled with understanding. "I know," she whispered. "Carrie's in the nurse's office too."

Alex felt a surge of fear for both Tyler and Carrie. "What's happening to them?"

Alicia's eyes searched his, looking for answers he didn't have. "I don't know," she said softly. "But it's not just them. Other kids are changing too."

He took out his phone and showed her the text and picture Tyler sent earlier.

"That's... weird," she murmured, leaning in to look closer.

Alex nodded, his throat tight. "It's more than weird. It's scary."

Alicia's hand reached out and gave his a gentle squeeze. "We'll figure it out," she assured him, though her own fear was palpable.

Just as Mr. Baker was about to dismiss the class, the intercom crackled to life again.

**Principal Hargrove:** "This is an urgent update for all Middleborough Middle School students and staff. Due to the evolving medical situation, we are now implementing a full school quarantine. Everyone must remain in their current classrooms until further notice. Teachers, please lock your doors and follow the instructions in your emergency protocol packets. Stay safe, everyone."

The classroom erupted into a cacophony of gasps and whispers. Alex's hand shot up, his eyes wide with panic. "Mr. Baker, what does this mean?"

Mr. Baker's face had gone pale. He cleared his throat and tried to sound calm. "It means we're going to stay put, everyone. Just follow the protocols." He shuffled through a stack of papers on his desk and pulled out a thick, emergency binder. "I'll be right back." He left the room, his footsteps quick and unsteady.

The students looked at each other, fear painted on their faces. The whispers grew louder, questions bouncing off the walls like a pinball machine in overdrive. The room was hot and stuffy, and Alex couldn't help but feel like he was suffocating. He wished he could just leave, find his friends, and figure out what was happening.

It didn't take long for the assembled students to realize Mr. Baker was not coming back.

"What do we do?" one of them, Mandy George, asked, her voice high-pitched and trembling.

Alex swallowed hard. "We wait," he said, trying to sound more confident than he felt. "Mr. Baker will come back with instructions."

"The hell he will" said Steve Roberts, who'd been sitting near the window for awhile now. "The fat ass is currently bolting toward his car"

Alex rushed to the window, his heart in his throat. Sure enough, Mr. Baker was halfway across the football field, his tie fluttering behind him like a white flag of surrender. The sight was surreal, a stark contrast to the stoic figure they knew.

"What a fucking coward" grunted Chet , another one of Tyler's football teammates.

The students looked at each other in disbelief. Some began to laugh nervously, trying to ease the tension with humor, while others started to panic. Alex felt his heart race as he moved to the door, trying the handle. It was indeed locked.

"Its locked" he said, defeated.

"What move" said Chet, pushing him out of the way and trying the handle himself without success. "The fat fuck locked us in"

He threw his considerable muscular bulk at the door with little success.

"Chet, stop," Alex said firmly, trying to be the voice of reason amidst the panic. "We can't break the door down."

Chet stepped back, breathing heavily. "What do we do then?" he asked, his voice thick with frustration.

Alicia spoke up, her voice calm but firm. "We need to stay calm and figure this out together."

The class looked to Alex, expecting him to have a plan. He took a deep breath and nodded. "Alicia's right. We can't panic. We're in this together."

He turned to the smartboard, where Mr. Baker had left the protocol instructions. "We should start by reading these."

The room fell silent as the group of fifteen students gathered around the board. The emergency protocol was dense with information, but it was clear that their situation was dire. The instructions talked about containment, personal protective equipment, and the importance of not touching each other or sharing anything. The gravity of their predicament settled in their stomachs like a cold stone.

"Okay, everyone," Alex said, his voice firm but shaky. "We need to stay calm. We're going to follow the protocols and wait for help."

The class nodded, though fear was etched into every face. They were all aware of the seriousness of the situation, and the fact that their teacher had abandoned them didn't help.

Alex read through the protocols, his eyes scanning the information as quickly as he could. "Alright," he began, trying to sound authoritative despite his own fear. "First, we need to check if anyone else is showing symptoms."

The students looked around nervously, but no one admitted to feeling sick. Alicia suggested they use the classroom phone to call the nurse's office for an update, but no one answered.

Everyone tried their smartphones but there was no wi-fi.

"What the fuck?" gasped Charlie Parker, pissed and annoyed.

"The signal's down," said Alex, his voice shaky. "It's probably part of the quarantine protocol."

Alicia nodded, taking a deep breath. "Okay, we need to keep everyone calm and see if we can find any information on our own."

"I say we just go out the window" said Chet, Steve and a boy named Jake agreeing with them.

"We're on the third floor, idiots" snapped a red headed girl named Rebecca.

Chet shot her a glare. "Better than rotting in here," he muttered, but didn't push the issue.

Arguing amongst themselves was going to get them nowhere and Alicia made everyone aware of that.

"Look," she said, raising her voice slightly to be heard over the chatter. "We can't just sit here and argue. We need to stay focused."

The room fell quiet again, and Alex felt a newfound responsibility. They were on their own, and it was up to them to keep each other safe. "Alicia's right," he said, trying to project calm. "We need to figure out what we can do."

They turned to their backpacks, which held the last vestiges of normalcy in this rapidly unraveling world. Slowly, they began to unpack what they had, laying them out on the nearest desk like a sad, makeshift buffet. There were a few water bottles, some granola bars, and a couple of apples. It wasn't much, but it was something. Alex hoped it would be enough to keep them going until help arrived.

Mrs. Hartman had mentioned that the virus was causing various symptoms, but none of them had seen anything that extreme yet. That didn't mean it couldn't happen to any of them, though. He glanced around the room, looking for any signs of sickness in his classmates. Everyone looked tense, but otherwise okay. For now.

The loudspeaker crackled to life once more, interrupting the uneasy silence. This time, it was the voice of Principal Hargrove. "This is a critical update for all students and staff. The virus has shown rapid progression in some individuals. We are now experiencing a higher than anticipated infection rate. We are taking additional measures to ensure everyone's safety."

Alex's eyes darted around the room, his heart racing as he took in the implications of the principal's words. The other students' faces were a mix of shock and dread. "What does that mean?" Mandy whispered, her voice shaking.

**Principal Hargrove:** "We are now enforcing a strict curfew. After the final bell, no one is to leave their classrooms. Security will be conducting regular checks. If anyone is found outside of their designated area, they will be immediately placed in isolation for their own safety."

"We can't leave" spit Chet, glaring at the door.

Alex ignored him and nodded to the principal's instructions. "Alright, everyone, let's stay put. We're going to be here for a while." He glanced at the clock. "We've got about twenty minutes until the next bell."

The bell rang, echoing through the halls like a mournful gong. The finality of it sent a chill down Alex's spine. They were trapped here until further notice. The students settled into their seats, trying to make the best of the situation, but the silence was heavy and uncomfortable.

Moments later, they heard footsteps approaching the classroom door. The handle jiggled, and the door swung open to reveal Mr. Jenkins, the school's burly security guard. His face was a mask of confusion as he took in the sight of the locked door and the room full of anxious teenagers.

"What's going on here?" he demanded, his eyes scanning the room. "Where's Mr. Baker?"

"You tell us" said Steve, annoyed.

"Fatty bolted" snapped Chet.

Mr. Jenkins's eyebrows shot up, and he stepped into the room, his hand on the radio at his hip. "What do you mean?"

Alex took a deep breath. "Mr. Baker said he was just going to check something and never came back. We tried calling the office and the nurse, but no one's picking up."

Mr. Jenkins frowned, his brow furrowed with concern. "Okay, everyone, stay put. I'll go find out what's happening." He stepped back into the hallway, the door swinging shut behind him. The lock clicked into place, leaving them once again isolated.

"He fucking locked us in again!" groaned a frustrated Chet.

"It's probably for our own good," Alicia said, trying to keep the peace. "They're just trying to keep everyone safe."

The class nodded in reluctant agreement, though the tension in the room remained palpable. The minutes ticked by like hours, each one heavier than the last. Alex found himself pondering the fate of Tyler and the others in the nurse's office. He hoped they were okay, that this was all just a bad dream that would end when the school day ended.

But the school day didn't end. The final bell never rang. Instead, they heard the distant echo of a siren, growing louder by the second. Through the classroom windows, they watched as a fleet of emergency vehicles pulled into the school's parking lot, their lights flashing a chaotic ballet of red and blue. The sound of slamming doors and urgent shouts filled the hallways outside their room, but no one came to explain what was happening.

Alex felt his palms growing slick with sweat as he tried to keep his composure. "Guys, we need to stay calm," he said, his voice echoing the instructions they'd heard from their teachers earlier that day. "We don't know what's going on, but we can't help if we panic."

Alicia nodded, her eyes reflecting the fear that lurked beneath her bravado. "Alex is right. We should keep the room organized and wait for someone to come and explain."

The door jolted open, and everyone jumped. Mr. Jenkins stormed in, his face a picture of concern. Two EMTs followed closely behind him, their medical bags clinking as they moved with a sense of urgency.

"Everyone, please remain calm," Mr. Jenkins barked, his eyes scanning the room.

The EMTs stepped forward, their faces hidden behind masks and visors. "We're here to check on everyone's health," one of them announced in a muffled voice.

Alex's heart was racing as he watched the EMTs move through the room, checking temperatures and asking questions. The sight of the medical personnel in their masks only served to amplify the fear that was already thick in the air.

"Everyone, please form a line and we'll check you one by one," the second EMT instructed, her voice calm and steady.

Alex was the first to step forward, his knees wobbly with fear. The EMT took his temperature and checked his pulse, her eyes meeting his briefly before she nodded and moved on to the next student. Alicia was next, her expression a mix of determination and fear.

The EMTs worked quickly, their movements efficient and methodical. They checked everyone's vitals, asking questions about symptoms and if anyone had been in contact with Tyler or Carrie. The class watched in silent terror, each one waiting for their turn, hoping they weren't the next to show signs of the mysterious virus.

As the EMTs moved through the line, Alex couldn't shake the feeling that they were hiding something. Their eyes darted around the room, and their whispers were too low to make out. The tension grew with every passing second, the air thick with the scent of antiseptic and fear.

When the EMTs finished checking everyone, Mr. Jenkins stepped forward. "Alright, everyone. Someone will be here with cots and blankets in a few minutes"

"We're sleeping here?" Chet said, sounding less than thrilled.

Mr. Jenkins nodded, his expression unreadable behind his mask. "Until we can get this under control, yes."

The class murmured in disbelief, the reality of their situation sinking in. They were to spend the night in their science classroom, with no way of knowing what was happening outside their locked door.

Mr. Jenkins nodded gravely. "I know this isn't ideal, but it's for everyone's safety. We're setting up a makeshift shelter in the gym, but we need to keep the potentially exposed separate."

Alex looked around the room, his stomach in knots. They were being treated like lab rats in an experiment gone wrong. The EMTs passed out boxes of paper masks then left as quickly as they had come, leaving them with more questions than answers. The students began to murmur among themselves, some sharing theories about the virus, others expressing fear for their families.

The sound of wheels squeaking against the linoleum floor grew louder, and soon a janitor pushed a cart loaded with cots into the classroom. "Where do you want these?" he asked Mr. Jenkins, his voice muffled behind his own mask.

Mr. Jenkins pointed to the far corner of the room. "Set them up over there. We'll need enough space for everyone to stay apart."

The janitor and Mr. Jenkins moved the desks and stacked them in the corner. Then together they set up the 15 cots they brought, they all barely fit in the room.

"Looks like we're going to be cozy," Steve said with a forced laugh, trying to lighten the mood.

Mr. Jenkins nodded. "Make yourselves comfortable. Remember, no leaving this room unless it's absolutely necessary." He paused, looking around the room one last time before adding, "And keep those masks on."

With a heavy sigh, Alex took his mask from the box and put it on, the paper feeling cold and uncomfortable against his face. The rest of the class followed suit, the sound of rustling plastic and shuffling feet the only noise in the otherwise silent room.

The janitor and Mr. Jenkins left, the door locking behind them with a resounding click. The class looked at each other, their eyes wide with fear and uncertainty. "What do we do now?" Mandy asked, her voice small and muffled through her mask.

Alex took a deep breath. "We should get some rest while we can. We're going to need it." He walked over to the cots and picked one, sitting down heavily. The burlap gave a little under his weight, the metal frame squeaking slightly. The others followed suit, arranging their backpacks into makeshift pillows and trying to get comfortable.

The room grew quiet as they settled in, the only sound the occasional cough and the distant murmur of adults in the hallway. Alex's mind raced with thoughts of Tyler and Carrie, wondering how they were coping with whatever was going on. He had so many questions, but now wasn't the time for answers.

As the hours dragged on, the room grew darker, the only light coming from the moon outside the windows. The cough grew louder and more persistent, pulling Alex from his fitful sleep. He sat up, his heart racing as he tried to locate the source of the sound. The coughing grew worse, and soon it was clear it was coming from a girl, who was doubled over in the cot next to him.

Alicia, who had been lying on her cot, jumped to her feet and rushed over. "Mandy, are you okay?" she asked, her voice filled with concern.

Mandy tried to nod, but her body was wracked with coughs. Her eyes watered, and she pulled her mask down to cover her mouth, her face pale even in the moonlit room. "It's...it's just allergies," she managed to croak out between gasps for air.

But Alex could see the fear in her eyes, and it mirrored the fear in his own heart. He knew it wasn't just allergies. The cough was deep and harsh, the kind that didn't come from a simple sneeze. It was the cough of someone fighting something much more serious.

The room grew tense as everyone sat up in their cots, the earlier camaraderie replaced by a thick veil of fear. Alex felt the eyes of his classmates on him, looking for guidance. He swallowed hard, his throat dry from the mask.

Chet rushed to the door, banging on it wildly, screaming for help.

"Chet, stop!" Alex called out, "You're just making it worse!"

Chet ignored him and continued to pound.

"Chet, stop!" Alex yelled again, his voice echoing through the classroom. "You're wasting your energy!"

But Chet was beyond listening, his panic rising with every unanswered knock. His fists grew red and raw, and the desperation in his eyes was unmistakable. Alex knew he had to act before the situation spiraled out of control. He jumped up from his cot and sprinted over, grabbing Chet's shoulders firmly. "We're in this together," he said, trying to calm him down. "We need to stay strong for Mandy."

The room fell silent as the coughing subsided into pitiful whimpers. Alicia took the lead, walking over to Mandy with a bottle of water and a concerned look. "Here," she said, handing it to her, "Take small sips."

Mandy nodded, her eyes teary and grateful, as she took the bottle and sipped the cool liquid. The class watched on, their own fears amplified by the vulnerability of their classmate. Alex felt his stomach drop as he realized that the virus could affect any of them.

"We should keep an eye on each other," Alex suggested, trying to regain some semblance of control. "If anyone starts feeling sick, we tell Alicia or me right away, okay?"

The class nodded solemnly, and Chet slumped against the door, his breathing ragged.

As the night progressed, the quiet was broken only by the occasional cough or whispered conversation. Alex and Alicia took turns keeping watch over Mandy, whose condition seemed to be worsening. Her cough grew more persistent, and her breaths grew shallower with each passing hour. The air in the room grew thick with the scent of fear and sickness.

Then, from across the room, another cough echoed through the darkness. Steve sat up with a start, his eyes wide and his hand flying to his mouth. The class held their collective breath as he coughed again, his body shaking with the effort. The coughs grew in intensity, and soon, the sound of his distress was impossible to ignore.

"I...I think I'm okay," Steve managed to say between gasps, his voice strained and muffled by his mask. But the worry in his eyes told a different story. Alicia rushed over to him, her own fear reflected in the way her hands trembled as she felt his forehead.

"We need to keep an eye on everyone," she said, her voice steady despite the panic bubbling just beneath the surface. "If anyone else starts showing symptoms..."

Chet scoffed, pulling off his mask. "A lot of fuck this is doing"

Alex knew Chet was right. The masks were a flimsy barrier against whatever was happening outside the classroom, but the sight of Mandy's distress was too much for him to handle. He marched over to the supply cart, grabbed a handful of antiseptic wipes, and tossed them to Chet. "Here, at least clean up."

The room was a cacophony of nervous whispers and coughs, each one louder and more alarming than the last. Alex's mind raced as he tried to think of what to do next. He knew they couldn't just sit there and wait for the inevitable. They had to find a way to help Mandy and Steve and protect the others.

"Alicia," Alex called out, his voice calm despite the chaos, "we need to check everyone for symptoms. Maybe we can figure out if it's spreading."

Alicia nodded, her expression grim. She began to move from cot to cot, her flashlight beam cutting through the darkness as she inspected each student's face, looking for the telltale signs of the virus. The air grew heavier with each cough, each sniffle, and each bead of sweat that rolled down a forehead.

"This is BS" said Steve, who only coughed once. "I'm fin..."

His body seized, he gasped and fell to the floor. He started to scream, clutching his chest.

Alex and Alicia rushed over, their eyes wide with horror. "Steve!" Alex shouted, dropping to his knees beside him.

But it was too late. Steve's body was already convulsing as the virus took hold. His muscles bulged and shifted beneath his clothes, his face contorting into an expression of pain and confusion. Within seconds, his entire form began to change, his body stretching and reshaping before their very eyes.

"What the hell is happening?" Chet yelled, his voice cracking with fear as he stumbled backward.

"It's the virus," Alex murmured, his eyes wide with disbelief as he watched Steve's transformation unfold. "It's changing him."

Alicia's hand shot to her mouth, her eyes filled with terror as she took in the scene before her. Steve's body was shrinking, his clothes becoming baggy, and his features softening. His hair grew longer, cascading down his now feminine face, and his skin took on a paler hue. The coughing had ceased, replaced by painful gasps as his body adjusted to its new form.

"We need to help him," Alicia whispered, her voice shaking as she reached out a trembling hand to touch Steve's shoulder.

But Alex knew it was too late. The transformation was complete. Where Steve had been, now lay a girl, her eyes wide with shock and confusion, looking around the room as if she had no idea where she was or what had just happened to her. The rest of the class stared in disbelief, their masks hanging forgotten around their necks.

"Steve?" Mandy's voice was a whisper, her hand shaking as she reached out to touch the new girl's arm. "Is that...?"

The girl looked up, her eyes meeting Mandy's. "What's going on?" she asked, her voice now a soft, feminine tone. It was clear she had no memory of the change, no understanding of the bizarre turn of events that had just unfolded.

"It's...it's the virus," Alex managed to explain, his voice barely above a whisper. "It's...changing us."

The room erupted into chaos. Some of the students started crying, others were shouting in panic. Alicia's hand hovered over Steve's forehead, her mind racing with what to do next. The fear in the room was palpable, a thick fog that suffocated any sense of calm.

"Everyone, sit down and put your masks back on!" Alex's voice cut through the panic, firm but not unkind. He knew they needed to keep their cool if they were going to get through this.

Slowly, the class complied, their eyes never leaving Steve's transformed body. The new Steve looked up at them, her eyes searching for answers in the sea of confusion.

"This can't be real," someone murmured from the back of the room.

Alex took a deep breath, his mind racing. "We need to stay calm," he said, his voice a shaky attempt at authority. "We're in this together. We have to figure out what's happening and how to deal with it."

Alicia nodded, taking over the role of caretaker. She began to instruct the class on how to monitor each other's symptoms, emphasizing the importance of staying hydrated and rested. Despite their fear, the students began to listen, realizing that panic would only make things worse.

"We're going to get through this," she said, her voice strong and reassuring. "We have to stick together and help each other out."

Alex watched as the class slowly began to organize themselves, some comforting the new Steve, while others searched the cabinets for medical supplies. The sight of their classmates' fear and confusion only hardened his resolve to find answers. He approached Alicia, who was speaking softly to the trembling Mandy.

Alex gestured her over to the corner where they talked in whispers.

"Steve was fast, one cough and poof...girl" said Alex, still a little bit shocked.

Alicia nodded. "Remember Tyler, you said he was still sick in the hall and he later texted you that rash hand. Neither Steve nor Mandy has any rash"

He nodded. "Mandy is still sick too, feverish even"

"This virus makes no sense. Its effecting people in different ways" she said, scared.

Alex agreed. "We need to find out more about it." He glanced around the room. "We have to use what we have. Maybe there's something in the science books that can help us understand."

Alicia nodded, her eyes scanning the bookshelves. "I'll start looking," she said, her voice shaking slightly. "You keep an eye on everyone."

Alex took charge, his heart racing as he tried to keep the panic at bay. He began to patrol the room, offering reassuring smiles and words to those who needed them. The new Steve was sitting up now, looking dazed and lost in her new body. Mandy's cough had grown worse, and Alex could see the worry etched on Alicia's face as she tended to her.

An hour later, Mandy's condition took a dramatic turn. Her coughing fits grew more severe, and she began to sweat profusely. Her eyes darted around the room, searching for help, as she tried to hold onto the last threads of consciousness. Alex watched in horror as her body began to twitch and spasm, mirroring Steve's transformation.

"Alicia!" he called out, unable to hide the urgency in his voice.

Mandy's body convulsed again, and this time, the transformation was as swift as it was terrifying. Her coughing subsided, and she took a deep, shuddering breath. As the room watched in stunned silence, her form began to shift. Her limbs grew longer, and her features hardened. Her clothes tightened around her, no longer fitting the body they had been designed for. Whereas Steve had turned into a girl, it was clear Mandy was becoming a boy.

"Mandy, no!" Alex rushed to her side, but Alicia was already there, her hand on Mandy's shoulder, trying to keep her still.

The new Mandy looked up, her eyes filled with fear and confusion, her voice now deep and gruff. "What's happening to me?" she choked out.

Alex and Alicia exchanged a worried glance. "It's the virus," Alex said gently. "It's flipping our genders"

"What do we do?" The new Mandy's voice was hoarse and unfamiliar.

Alex swallowed hard, trying to maintain composure. "We need to keep you both comfortable and monitor any changes," he said, looking over at Alicia for confirmation. She nodded, her eyes reflecting the gravity of the situation.

The class had gone silent, the only sounds the occasional rustle of fabric as the new Steve and Mandy tried to adjust to their transformed bodies. The moon cast eerie shadows across the room, adding to the tension as they all grappled with the reality of their predicament.

They both agreed to swap clothes, given the situation. Everyone in Middleborough wore a simple school uniform consisting of short sleeved white button shirts and black pants for boys and white short sleeve buttoned blouses and black pleated skirts for girls.

Everyone in the room gave them privacy as they swapped everything, including underwear.

"Shit" gasped the new Steve in the dark. "I think my boobs are bigger than Mandy's were"

"Fuck you" grunted Mandy's new voice from somewhere in the dark.

Alex couldn't help but crack a nervous smile at the absurdity of the situation. "Okay, okay. Let's keep it together," he called out, trying to diffuse the tension. "We're all in this together."

They managed to get the new Steve and Mandy into their respective clothes, and the class reassembled in the moonlit room. The sight of Mandy now with short hair and broader shoulders was jarring, but the urgency of the situation didn't allow for much time to process the changes.

"We need to think," Alicia said, her voice steady. "We can't just sit here and wait for something to happen."

Alex nodded. "You're right. We have to find out more about this virus and figure out how to stop it or reverse it."

They tried the phone again, hoping against hope that someone would answer. But the line remained eerily silent, the dial tone a cold reminder of their isolation.

"It's useless," Chet muttered, slamming the receiver down. "No one cares."

Alex nodded, his thoughts racing. "We can't rely on outside help," he said, looking around the room. "We need to figure this out ourselves."

The night passed in a fitful haze of sleep. In the morning, the class awoke to find another transformation had occurred. Charlie, who had been a boy, now lay in his cot, his body altered into a girl's form. The room was filled with a mix of horror and fascination as they stared at the latest victim of the mysterious virus and her ample chest, straining against Charlie's shirt.

There was a lot of blushing from the boys, including the new Mandy much to his surprise.

"Okay, okay, let's keep it together," Alicia said, taking charge again. "We need to help Charlie find better..."

A girl from the back groaned. Her name was Clara and she was a pretty big chested girl as well. "Come here Charlie, I keep a spare bra in my bag"

The class watched as Clara, now looking very motherly, helped Charlie tie the bra in the dim light. It was a surreal moment, one that brought a brief sense of normalcy to the chaos. The new Charlie, still groggy from the transformation, mumbled her thanks, her voice now a mix of shyness and embarrassment.

Alex couldn't shake the feeling that they were all just characters in a terrible, twisted fairy tale, each waking up to a new body and a new set of challenges. He turned to Alicia, who was busy distributing granola bar pieces and water from the emergency supplies.

"We can't just sit here and watch each other change," he said, his voice tight with anxiety. "We need a plan."

Alicia nodded. "We should keep a log of symptoms and changes. Maybe there's a pattern we can find."

They quickly set to work, creating a makeshift chart on the board. Each student wrote down their current condition, any new symptoms, and the time of their last transformation. The room was filled with whispers and hushed tones as they discussed what they were feeling and what they had noticed about their classmates.

Mr. Jenkins walked in, his face etched with concern. He took in the scene before him, his eyes lingering around the room, and then on the chart they had created. "Have you had any..."

"Three" said Alex, pointing toward Steve, Mandy and Charlie.

"That makes 32 now" said Mr. Jenkins with a sigh.

Alex and Alicia looked at him, confused. "What do you mean?" Alex asked.

Mr. Jenkins took a deep breath. "It's happening everywhere. The entire school is affected, maybe the whole town."

Alex's heart sank. "What do we do?"

Mr. Jenkins looked around the room, his gaze lingering on the new Steve, Charlie and Mandy. "Well the recently changed are being allowed out of quarantine and brought to the gym where we've set up a bit of makeshift shelter area"

Alex felt a surge of hope. "So we're not just going to be left here?"

Mr. Jenkins shook his head. "They're trying to limit the spread of the virus. We know a few things now. One, it doesn't seem to affect adults, two its different in everyone..."

"And three?" asked a fearful Becky.

Mr. Jenkins sighed. "You're all infected"

The room grew still. No one moved, no one talked. The gravity of the words hung in the air like a thick fog, suffocating any hope that had been present. Alex felt his chest tighten, the realization of their plight fully setting in.

"What do we do now?" Becky's voice was barely a whisper.

Mr. Jenkins paused before speaking. "We follow protocol. We need to keep the sick isolated, and the healthy need to stay as healthy as possible. Like I said, those three" He pointed to Steve, Mandy and Charlie. "Have to come with me. You lot have to stay here. The less this spreads, the better hope of figuring it out"

"But you said we're all going to lose our dicks though" snapped Chet, clearly not taking the news well.

Mr. Jenkins sighed, his expression one of weary patience. "I said you're all infected. Not all of you will turn into girls. But we have to be prepared for it."

The room remained still, the weight of their situation pressing down on them like a heavy blanket. Alex looked around at his classmates, their faces a mix of fear, anger, and disbelief. He felt a strange sense of responsibility wash over him, knowing that he had to be strong for everyone.

"We'll be okay," he said, trying to sound more confident than he felt. "We just have to stick together and keep each other safe."

There were murmurs and nods.

Mr. Jenkins left with Steve, Mandy and Charlie who told everyone to be safe.

Now they were down to 12.

Alex took the lead again. "We need to keep a closer eye on each other," he said, his voice firm. "We're all going to take shifts watching over everyone. If someone starts showing symptoms, we need to know immediately."

The remaining classmates nodded in agreement, the gravity of their situation sinking in. They divided into groups and began to monitor their health, taking turns to rest and eat from the dwindling supply of granola bars and bottled water. The science room, which had once been a place of learning and curiosity, had turned into a makeshift hospital ward.

Midday approached, and with it, three more of their classmates began to show symptoms. Rachel, a shy girl who had been sitting quietly in the corner, started to cough. Her eyes grew wide with fear as she looked around the room. Alex rushed to her side, feeling her forehead and noticing it was hot to the touch.

"We need to keep her cool," Alicia instructed, handing over a wet cloth.

Rachel's cough grew worse, and soon, the transformation began. Her body writhed and twisted, and when it was over, Rachel was a boy, looking up at them with the same shock and confusion that Steve and Mandy had shown the night before.

"What the...?" Rachel's voice was now deep and raspy.

Alex and Alicia helped Rachel sit up. She looked down at her new body with a mix of horror and amazement. Rachel had always been petite, and now she had broad shoulders and muscular arms. The boys couldn't help but gawk, and the girls couldn't help but feel a twinge of lust.

Rachel looked up at Alex, her eyes brimming with tears. "I feel really strong now?"

Alex nodded, trying to keep the smile on his face. "It's going to be okay, Rachel."

But Rachel was not the only one affected. The cough grew stronger and soon it was Becky and Timmy who were showing signs of the dreaded gender swap. The class watched in horror as Becky's transformation happened quickly, her body morphing into a boy's body in a matter of minutes. Timmy's was slower, his features becoming more and more feminine with each agonizing moment.

The room was now a mix of both fear and acceptance, the reality of their situation sinking in deeper with each transformation. Alex looked around, trying to keep track of who was still themselves and who had changed. It was getting harder to tell, as the dynamics of the group shifted and the line between who was who blurred.

There were now nine of them left who were still their pre-virus genders.

Alex felt a growing sense of responsibility. "We need to keep up the watch," he said, his voice firm but gentle. "We can't let anyone else be caught off guard."

The students nodded solemnly, understanding the gravity of the situation. They resumed their vigil, each taking turns to keep an eye on their peers, ready to jump into action at the first sign of the virus's symptoms.

Two hours later, Mr. Jenkins returned, his face wearing a new expression of worry. He looked around the room, his gaze lingering on the transformed students before speaking. "I need to take Timmy, Becky, and Rachel with me now."

Alex felt his stomach drop. "What's the tally up to now?"

Mr. Jenkins's eyes were sad. "I can't say for outside but in the school, we're at 66 now with your three friends there"

"Shit, its getting faster" Said Alicia with a grim expression.

Alex nodded. "We can't let it get out of hand. We have to be ready for anything."

Mr. Jenkins paused, his gaze drifting over the makeshift chart on the board. "You're doing a good job, Alex. Keep it up."

Alex nodded, trying to hide his anxiety as Rachel, Becky, and Timmy were escorted out. The class watched them go, each one feeling a pang of fear for themselves and their friends.

An hour after Mr. Jenkins left, Stacy, one of the three remaining girls, gasped.

"Wi-fi is back!"

The sudden shout pierced through the tension in the room. Alex whipped his head around to see Chet holding up his phone, the screen glowing with life.

"Can we call home now?" A girl called Sara asked, hope flaring in her eyes.

Alex nodded. "Let's keep it to emergencies only," he reminded them. "We don't know if talking about this will make things worse."

Sara took out her phone with trembling hands and dialed her mother's number. The room held its collective breath as the line rang. The call went to voicemail. "Mom, it's me. We're okay, we're in the science room. Don't worry, we're safe," she said, her voice breaking. "Call back if you can. Love you."

One by one, the students tried reaching their families, but the results were the same. Voicemails filled with unanswered messages. The room grew quiet again, the reality of their isolation setting in deeper.

Alex took the phone from Sara and put it on speaker. He called 911, hoping for some news, some kind of reassurance that the outside world was still functioning. The line was busy, a continuous drone that seemed to mock their desperation.

"What if they're all busy with this?" Sara asked, her voice quaking.

Alex sighed, his own anxiety growing. "We can't just sit here and wait," he said, pacing the room. "We have to do something, find out more."

"What about the news?" suggested Chet. "Maybe they have some information."

Alex nodded and took the TV remote from Mr. Jenkins' desk. The static on the screen was replaced by a frantic news reporter, her eyes wide with panic. The words 'Gender Virus Outbreak' flashed in bold red letters beneath her. The class leaned in, eager for any information that could explain their predicament.

The reporter spoke rapidly, her voice a mix of shock and urgency. "The CDC has confirmed that the virus, which is currently affecting teenagers across the nation, is indeed swapping genders. They are urging everyone to remain calm and follow the emergency protocols issued by the government. It appears that only those under the age of 18 are susceptible to the infection."

Alex felt a mix of relief and dread. At least they weren't alone in this, but the fact that it was happening nationwide meant that help might be a long way off. The class listened intently as the reporter continued, describing the chaos that had erupted outside their school's walls. Hospitals were overwhelmed, and parents were being advised to keep their children isolated until a cure could be found.

The TV flickered and went to commercial, leaving them in silence once again. Alex's mind raced with questions. "What does this mean for us?" he thought. "How long will we be stuck here?"

"We should keep watching," Alicia suggested, her voice calm despite the turmoil in her eyes. "We might get some answers."

Alex nodded, clicking back to the news channel. The reporter was now standing in front of a local hospital, surrounded by worried parents and medical staff in hazmat suits. The scene was chaotic, with ambulances arriving and leaving at a dizzying pace.

"The government has set up temporary shelters for those affected," the reporter said. "But the rapid spread of the virus has left authorities struggling to keep up with the demand."

The room was quiet as the weight of the news settled in. The class exchanged glances, each contemplating their own fate and the fates of their families. The once-ordinary science room now felt like a bubble, floating in a sea of uncertainty and fear.

Alicia broke the silence. "We need to focus on what we can control," she said, her voice firm. "We have to take care of each other and keep the room sanitized."

"Dude, you're delusional" snapped Chet. "He said we're all infected, bro"

"I'm not a dude or a bro" said Alicia defensively.

"Not yet bud" said a despondent Chet.

Alicia sighed, trying to keep her patience. "I know it's hard to believe, but we have to stay positive and follow the protocols."

"But what if we're next?" Stacy whispered, her eyes wide with fear.

Alex knew he had to keep the class calm. "We're going to get through this," he assured her, though he couldn't help but wonder the same thing.

A bit later, the virus struck again. It was Mark, one of the more athletic boys, who suddenly doubled over in pain, his cough turning into a full-blown transformation. The class watched, both fascinated and horrified, as Mark's body began to shift into that of a girl. Alex and Alicia were by his side in an instant, providing comfort and guidance through the agonizing process.

"It's okay, Mark," Alicia whispered, her voice soothing despite her own fears. "We're here for you."

Mark's eyes, now a soft brown, searched their faces, looking for understanding and acceptance. The transformation was quick, but the silence that followed was eternal. The class stared at the new Mark, a girl with long lashes and a delicate frame, lying on the cot.

"I...I don't know what to do," Mark's new voice was high and sweet, filled with confusion.

Alex and Alicia helped Mark sit up, providing a fresh set of clothes they had managed to gather from the lost and found. "We're going to get through this together," Alex said, trying to sound more confident than he felt.

"You sound like a broken record" mumbled Chet but everyone ignored him.

As the night wore on, the tension grew thicker than the silence that had settled in the room. Sara, who had been a bright, cheery presence, began to look pale. She coughed once, twice, and then a third time, a deep, racking sound that made everyone in the room freeze.

"Sara?" Alex asked, his voice tight with concern.

She looked up at him, her eyes wide with fear. "I... I think it's happening to me," she choked out, her hand flying to her throat as she felt the beginnings of the transformation.

Alex and Alicia rushed to her side, the class holding their collective breath. They had seen it before, but each time was as shocking as the first. Brad, who had been sitting quietly in the corner, now began to show signs as well, his cheeks flushing with a fever that seemed to burn from within.

"Sara, Brad, try to stay calm," Alex instructed, his voice steady as he took on the role of the group's makeshift leader. "We're here to help."

The two afflicted students trembled as their bodies began to contort and reshape before their very eyes. Sara's transformation was as quick as Mark's had been, but Brad's was slower, more painful to watch. His muscles bulged and then receded, his skin tone deepening to match the darker hue of his new identity. The class held onto each other, some crying openly, as they witnessed their friends become strangers in the most profound way possible.

Sara was a short boy now with sandy blonde hair and Brad became an exotic looking girl with olive skin and curly hair.

In the morning, Mr. Jenkins returned with a look of defeat etched on his face. He gently called for Sara, Brad, and Mark to come with him. The three of them, still reeling from their transformations, slowly made their way to the door, their new forms a stark contrast to their former selves.

"Then there were six" mumbled Chet, he was in a fetal position in the corner.

Alex surveyed those remaining. Alicia and Stacy were the only girls left now. As for the boys there was him, Chet, a guy he barely knew named Phil and Mike, the class clown who didn't really have much to be joking about currently.

Mike's transformation was something none of them could've prepared for. He had been complaining of a sore throat all morning, but when the coughing fit hit, it was sudden and severe.

"Looks like I'll get to run for prom queen now" he joked right before he doubled over and the transformation began.

The room watched in horror as Mike's body contorted and changed before them. The clownish exterior was replaced by a stunning young woman with piercing blue eyes and long, straight blonde hair. The pain was evident on his face, now her face, as she looked down at her new body with a mix of shock and disbelief.

"Mike?" Alex asked tentatively, reaching out a hand.

She flexed her fingers in front of her face then a second later, she was grabbing her new breasts. "Not bad" she said with glee. "Not bad at all"

Alicia and Stacy rolled their eyes. "Once a pig, always a pig" one of them murmured.

Chet was inconsolable now, crying in the corner, rocking back and forth.

"Look, guys," Alicia began, her voice a lifeline in the storm of fear. "We have to stay strong. We don't know when we'll get out of here, but we can't let panic take over."

Stacy nodded, wiping her own tears away. "We've got to keep it together. We can't let fear control us."

Alicia wanted to add more but she started to cough.

Everyone froze and looked at her.

"Alicia?" Alex's voice was tinged with alarm.

Alicia tried to smile, but her eyes were watering. "It's just nerves," she said, her voice a little raspy. But the cough persisted, and she couldn't ignore the way her chest felt tight.

Alex took her temperature with a trembling hand, the digital thermometer beeping its confirmation. "You're not running a fever," he said, trying to sound reassuring.

Alicia was one of the slow ones though. Alex helped her over to her coat, laying her down gently. He started to turn to get her some water but she stopped him and grabbed his hand.

"Wait" she said gently, smiling.

"What is it?" he asked.

"Something I want to do with this body" she said then pulled him forward and kissed him.

The kiss floored him because he definitely wasn't expecting it, especially from her. Sure he had a massive crush on her but did that mean that she...

"I've been wanting to do that forever" she said with a giddy smirk.

"Me too" he admitted blushing.

"There's something else too" she said, sitting up.

She started to unbutton her blouse, causing Alex to panic.

"Wait. we're 14, we...I mean..."

She smacked him. "I don't want to have sex with you idiot" she said as she quickly unfastened her bra. "I wanted to give this to you"

She handed him the bra and he looked confused. "Umm, thanks?"

"Its for when you...you know..."

He was confused for a second but then he understood.

An hour later, Alicia began to show signs of the transformation. The cough had worsened, and now she was clutching her stomach, her face contorted in pain. Alex and Stacy rushed to her side, their eyes wide with fear.

"What do we do?" Stacy whispered, her voice shaking.

Alex swallowed hard, trying to keep his composure. "We just have to stay with her," he said, his eyes on Alicia.

Her transformation was unlike any they had seen before. Her body grew taller, more angular, and the pain was evident in every twitch of her muscles. The class watched in awe and horror as Alicia's hair shrunk into a shaggy mess, and her features began to take on a more masculine appearance.

"It's okay," Alex lied, his hand on her shoulder. "It's going to be okay."

Alicia's eyes searched his, looking for truth in his words. She nodded, biting her lip to keep from crying out as her body continued to rebel against her. Her transformation was happening so fast, it was as if her body was playing catch-up with the rest of the class.

As Alicia's face took on the structure of a teenage boy, her voice dropped to a gruff, unfamiliar tenor. "Thanks, Alex," she managed to say, her hand still in his. The pain was intense, but she was determined not to show it.

The transformation was over as quickly as it had begun. Alicia, now a boy, sat up, looking down at his new body with a mix of amazement and dread. Alex helped him sit up, trying not to betray his own discomfort with the sudden shift.

Alicia flexed his muscle. "Wow" he said then laughed. "My Dad always wanted a son"

Alex wasn't sure what to say or how to react to this new Korean boy who used to be the girl he had a crush on, the girl who just kissed him an hour ago.

He finally found his words. "Alicia...I"

Alicia put a finger to Alex's lips. "Its Aaron now, babe" he said with a reassuring nod. "I had some time to think about it the last couple of days, you know"

Alicia now Aaron brushed his fingers gently across Alex's cheek.

Alex didn't hate the touch but it was different.

A moment later, Aaron confessed he was going to get undressed. The night before, Alex and Alicia discussed this. Alex went and retrieved the gym clothes he had in his back---a simple t-shirt and some shorts. No one really wanted to swap underwear for obvious hygiene reasons.

The new boy got dressed quickly enough. "This is really really weird" he said, flexing his fingers. "I'm so tall now and, wow, my voice is so weird"

"You're kinda hot now too" said a clearly flushed Stacy. "Like K-pop boy hot"

"I'm flattered Stace" said the new boy but he grabbed Alex and pulled him over. "This is the girl for me"

Alex wasn't sure how to respond. Male Alicia was surprisingly assertive.

"Oh you're blushing" he said with a laugh. "I can't wait to see that from the new you. When this is all over, I'm taking you out, ok? I have the perfect dress that I think might look really cute on you"

It was altogether a little awkward for everyone in the room.

Aaron looked at his watch, which was still on his wrist from his previous life as Alicia. "They're probably going to be here soon," he said, his new voice still sounding foreign to everyone.

The class nodded solemnly, knowing that Mr. Jenkins would be back to take the newly transformed students to the shelter. The room was quiet, filled with the sound of breathing and occasional sniffs as everyone tried to hold back their fear and confusion.

"Remember, guys," Aaron said, trying to keep his voice steady, "We're all in this together."

Mr. Jenkins walked in, his eyes weary. He looked around the room, his gaze lingering on Aaron, then at Mike. "It's time," he said, his voice heavy with exhaustion.

Aaron and Mike, still reeling from their recent transformations, slowly got to their feet. The rest of the class gathered around them, their faces a mix of sadness and fear. They had all bonded in the face of this bizarre crisis, and the thought of losing more of their friends was almost too much to bear.

"You guys are going to be okay," Alex said, trying to sound reassuring. "We'll all get through this together."

Aaron nodded, trying to hide his fear behind the bravado. "You bet we will," he said, his voice still an unfamiliar octave lower. "We're the strong ones, remember?"

Mike, now Melissa, couldn't find words. She just nodded, her eyes red from crying.

Alex looked at her, feeling his own eyes fill with tears. "You're going to be okay," he said, trying to sound more confident than he felt.

Aaron managed a smile, his hand reaching out to squeeze Alex's shoulder. "You take care of everyone," he said, his voice now a low rumble. "And don't worry about me. I'll be fine."

Then they were gone.

Alex started crying.

The remaining students looked around the room, the reality of their situation sinking in. They were all going to change, all going to leave their old lives behind. There were only four of them left now.

"Okay, let's get cleaned up," Alex said, his voice cracking. He didn't want to break down, not with everyone counting on him.

They started to clean up the science room, which had become a makeshift hospital and support center over the past few days. The sight of their transformed classmates leaving was too much to bear, and they needed something to do to keep their minds off of it. It didn't help that their backpacks and cots were still there just how they left them.

Chet had stopped crying and was now pacing around the room. "What are we going to do?" he asked no one in particular. "How are we going to get out of this?"

"We don't" said Phil, a sense of finality in his voice.

He'd been pretty quiet the last few days, not that anyone could really blame him.

Alex looked over at him, trying to figure out what to say. "We stick together," he said firmly. "We follow the protocols and we wait for the doctors to find a cure."

The janitor, Mr. Rogers, pushed a cart into the room, the smell of food wafting through the air. It was the first real food they had seen in days, and the sight of it made their stomachs growl. He was wearing a full hazmat suit, his eyes the only part of his face visible through the clear plastic visor.

"Eat up," he said gruffly. "I don't know when the next delivery will be."

They fell on the food like it was their last meal, which, for all they knew, it could have been. The thought was sobering, and they tried to eat quickly but also savor every bite. It tasted like the most amazing food they had ever had, despite being just plain sandwiches and chips.

As they ate, they talked in hushed whispers about their futures, about what it would be like to leave the school and go home to their families. Would they even be the same people when they left this room? Would their parents still recognize them?

Mr. Rogers cleared his throat. "You should get some rest," he said, his voice muffled by the suit. "You never know what tomorrow might bring."

They nodded, swallowing the last bites of their food. The conversation had taken a dark turn, and no one felt much like talking anymore. They curled up in their cots, trying to ignore the cold fear that was creeping into their bones. The room was quieter than it had ever been, and it felt eerily empty without the others.

Mr. Rogers checked on them one last time before he left, making sure they had everything they needed for the night. He closed the door behind him, leaving them in the stark fluorescent glow of the room. The air was thick with the smell of antiseptic and fear, and it was all they could do not to choke on it.

They lay in their cots, listening to the distant sounds of the school that had become a prison. The clanking of pipes, the occasional shout from outside, and the muffled cries of their former classmates in the hallways. It was a grim reminder that they weren't the only ones going through this.

The next day dawned with no new transformations. Alex felt a flicker of hope. Maybe the virus had run its course, maybe they had all it had to give. They ate the breakfast Mr. Rogers brought them, trying to ignore the metallic taste of hope in their mouths. They cleaned the room together, the rhythmic motions of sweeping and wiping a comforting routine in the face of the chaos outside their door.

In the afternoon, Mr. Rogers brought a board game, a small act of kindness that seemed almost out of place in the stark room. They played, trying to laugh at the jokes and forget the fear that hovered just outside their bubble of normalcy. Chet even managed a smile, his eyes briefly lighting up as he rolled the dice.

Then it happened. Alex felt a tickle in his throat, and before he knew it, he was coughing. Not just any cough, but a deep, rattling cough that echoed through the room like a drumbeat of doom. The laughter died away, replaced by a heavy silence. He looked up, his eyes meeting Stacy's, who was frozen mid-sentence, her eyes wide with terror.

"Oh no," Stacy whispered, her hand flying to her mouth. "Oh no, oh no, oh no."

Alex felt his heart drop into his stomach. He knew what that cough meant. He looked at his hands, expecting to see them begin to change, but for now, they remained stubbornly the same. The room seemed to tilt around him, the walls closing in as the reality of his situation hit him like a truck. He had been the rock, the one everyone leaned on, and now he was falling apart too.

Stacy was the first to move. She rushed over to him, her eyes filled with concern. "Are you okay?" she asked, her voice trembling. Alex could only shake his head, unable to find the words. The others gathered around, their expressions a mirror of fear and confusion.

The cough grew stronger, and with it, the unmistakable symptoms of the virus began to manifest. Alex felt his body start to ache, his skin growing hot to the touch. His vision swam, and he had to lean against the desk to keep from falling.

He lost his balance and ended up on the floor. The room started to spin around him as the darkness crept into his vision.

Then the room was black.

Alex awoke with a start, gasping for air. His body felt... different. Lighter, softer. His throat didn't burn anymore, but something was definitely wrong. He tried to sit up, but his movements were awkward, unpracticed. He looked down and gasped.

He was in the nurse's office, but everything was different. His clothes were gone, replaced by a hospital gown that billowed around his new body. His hands, they were smaller, his skin smoother. He looked in the mirror and saw a girl staring back at him. It was him, but it wasn't. She looked a bit like his mother but with lighter hair, which was now past her shoulders.

Alex tried to stand, but his legs didn't cooperate. They felt foreign, like he had borrowed them from someone else. He had to grab the side of the bed to keep from falling over. The nurse, Mrs. Peterson, noticed the movement and rushed over, her eyes widening when she saw him sitting up.

"Alex, are you okay?" she asked, her voice gentle.

Alex's new voice was high-pitched and shaky. "I-I think so," he said, his heart racing. "What happened?"

"You gave us a scare that's what" said the nurse, checking his temperature. "None of the others blacked out like nor sleep for two days"

Alex felt his throat tighten. "How many of us are left?"

"You were actually one of the last ones, I think your friend Chet was actually the last"

Alex felt a cold shiver run down his spine. "Is everyone else okay?"

"More or less. Out of your whole classroom, Phil and Stacy ended up being immune"

Alex felt a wave of relief wash over him, knowing that at least two of his friends had been spared. He looked down at his new body, trying to process what he saw. His hands trembled as he touched his face, feeling the softness of his new skin, the unfamiliar curves of his cheeks and the strange weight of his hair.

"I know it's a lot to take in," Mrs. Peterson said, her voice soothing. "But you're going to be okay. We're all here to help you through this."

Alex nodded, trying to keep the tears at bay. "Thank you," he murmured, his voice sounding so unlike his own.

"You have a couple of visitors if that's ok?"

"Oh, really? Who is it?" Alex asked, suddenly feeling a surge of hope.

Aaron came in, followed by Jenny of all people, apparently she was immune too. Her green eyes lit up when she saw him, and a smile spread across her face. She hurried over to his bed and gave him a hug. "Oh, Alex, I'm so glad you're okay!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with relief.

"Jenny, you're here too?" he managed to choke out. His voice still sounded strange to his own ears.

Jenny nodded, a smile playing on her lips. "Yeah, I'm here for you. The doctors said I had a natural immunity or something. Anyway, I thought I'd come and see how you're doing." She paused, her eyes darting around the room before settling back on his face. "How are you feeling, anyway?"

"Girly" he said and she punched his arm.

"Oww" he whined.

"Oh, come on," Jenny said, feigning anger as she let go of his arm. "You're just jealous that you're not as immune as I am." She grinned, her green eyes sparkling. "But seriously, Alex, how are you feeling? I know it's a lot to take in."

Alex shrugged, trying to keep the tears at bay. "Confused, I guess. I don't understand what happened to me. One minute I'm a guy, and the next..." He trailed off, unable to finish the thought.

Aaron walked over and gave him a reassuring pat on the shoulder. "Hey, it's okay. We're all here for you. And you know what? You look good as a girl. I mean, you had a pretty face to begin with, but now..." He glanced at Jenny, who was grinning mischievously. "Now you're just stunning."

Jenny giggled, her green eyes sparkling. "Oh, Aaron, you're so sweet. But really, Alex, you look great. And don't worry, I'm sure you'll get used to it. I mean, you're still the same person inside, right?" She leaned in closer, lowering her voice. "And hey, maybe now we'll be friends. I mean, we'll finally have something in common."

"What about Max and Marcus?"

"Hot as hell, well Marcus anyway. Max is Max but a girl" Jenny was laughing.

Aaron leaned forward, getting close to Alex's face. "I was right by the way, you are so fucking cute and that dress will look really really good on you too"

Alex blushed and Jenny looked really confused.

Aaron and Jenny were ushered out of the room after that to give Alex some time to rest.

The next week went by in a blur for Alex. He spent most of his time with Max and Marcus, who had also been transformed into girls. They bonded over their shared experiences and tried to make the best of the situation.

One day, as they were hanging out in the common room, a new girl walked in. She had short-cropped hair and was dressed in boyish clothes that didn't quite fit her new feminine figure. As she made her way over to them, Max nudged Alex and whispered, "That's Chet."

Alex couldn't believe it. Chet looked so different, but there was something in her eyes that was unmistakable. She was the same Chet he had known all his life, just in a different body. They all exchanged nervous hellos, and Chet looked around the room, taking in the changes. "It's weird, isn't it?" she said, her voice still a bit rough around the edges. "And it sucks. I miss being a guy."

"We all do," Max said, giving her a comforting pat on the back. "But we're all in this together, right?"

"Yeah," Marcus added, her voice now a soft, melodic lilt. "We're the new 'it' crowd, just with a little extra chromosome."

They shared a bittersweet laugh, the kind that comes from finding humor in the most dire of situations. Over the week, they had become a tight-knit group, navigating their new realities together. The school had transformed into a makeshift shelter, with teachers and staff doing their best to provide care and support. The hallways, once bustling with teenage energy, now echoed with the tentative steps of their changed forms.

As for the classes, they had been reimagined to help the transformees acclimate to their new genders. The first session was scheduled for the day after Alex was finally allowed out of the nurse's office. It would be led by a counselor who specialized in gender identity issues. The group decided to go together, to face this new challenge as a team.

They entered the classroom, taking seats near the front. The counselor, a middle-aged woman with a kind face and gentle voice, welcomed them and explained that the purpose of the class was to help them understand and accept their new bodies. "We'll cover topics like hygiene, fashion, and social interaction," she said, "as well as address any emotional or psychological issues that may arise."

The group nodded in unison, feeling a sense of relief wash over them. They had been dreading the thought of trying to navigate their new lives on their own. As the counselor began the lesson, they found themselves paying close attention, taking in every word. She gave them advice on how to walk, talk, and carry themselves as women, emphasizing that confidence was key.

They practiced applying makeup, with varying degrees of success, and tried on different outfits that had been donated by local stores. Alex felt awkward at first, but with each step and gesture, he started to feel a little more comfortable in his new body. Sara, who had been transformed into a boy, offered him tips on how to sit and stand gracefully. "You've got to remember to keep your shoulders back," she said, mimicking the posture of a runway model. "It's all about the illusion of length."

During breaks, they'd share stories about their lives before the virus, trying to hold onto the familiar amidst the surreal. Max talked about playing baseball with his dad, while Marcus reminisced about the time he scored a winning touchdown. Chet was quieter, still struggling with the loss of her previous identity. Alex noticed her glancing at her reflection in the mirror often, a sadness in her eyes that the others didn't see.

As the weeks went by, they began to settle into a routine. They continued to attend the gender classes, finding solace in the counselor's words and the support of their newfound friends. They started going to the gym together, working out to feel more comfortable in their bodies. Max would show Alex how to do pull-ups, while Chet would demonstrate proper form on the treadmill. They laughed and teased each other, finding the humor in their situation.

They also began exploring their new interests. Marcus discovered a passion for cooking, often bringing treats to share with the group. Sara taught them all how to play guitar, and they would gather around at lunchtime, strumming and singing under the watchful eye of the school's resident teacher cat. Even shy Chet found her voice, joining the school's drama club and landing a lead role in the fall production.

The days went by, and with each passing hour, the group grew closer. They became each other's confidants, supporting one another through the highs and lows of their new lives. They celebrated birthdays and holidays together, their bond growing stronger with each shared experience.

Alex, now Alexis, found herself thriving in her new body. She was no longer the shy, awkward boy she once was; she was confident and outgoing, with a newfound appreciation for her femininity. She and Aaron were officially dating now, not that it surprised anyone. On their first date, Aaron even got her to wear that dress he had in his closet, it fit her as perfectly as he said it would.

The day finally arrived when the school deemed it safe for the transformed students to go home. The school had become a second home to them, and leaving was bittersweet. They had all grown so much in such a short time, but the outside world was still a mystery.

Alexis looked around the room, her heart swelling with emotion. She had made a family here, and now she was about to step back into a life she didn't recognize. She had to admit, though, she was excited to see her mom and dad, to show them how much she had changed, both inside and out.

As they packed their bags, the group shared nervous glances. They had become so accustomed to the shelter of the school that the thought of facing the world was terrifying. "You guys ready for this?" Alexis asked, her voice trembling slightly.

Max nodded, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. "As ready as I'll ever be, I guess." He looked down at his new, slender hands. "I just hope my parents are okay with... this."

"They will be," Marcus assured him, giving his shoulder a comforting squeeze. "They're our parents, they'll love us no matter what."

The group nodded, trying to convince themselves of the truth in Marcus's words. They had been given letters to take home, explaining the situation in detail and providing resources for their families. The school had done everything they could to prepare them for the outside world, but nothing could truly prepare them for the reality of it.

As they stepped out of the school building, the cool fall air greeted them. The world looked the same, yet everything felt different. They were all dressed in their new clothes, a mix of donations and hastily bought garments that didn't quite match their old styles. The bus ride home was filled with a mix of excitement and anxiety, their hearts racing as they approached their neighborhoods.

Alexis's house was the first stop. She took a deep breath before walking up the driveway, her eyes scanning the familiar surroundings with a new perspective. The door swung open, and there were her parents, looking slightly older than she remembered. Their expressions shifted from shock to disbelief and then to a warm embrace. The conversation was awkward at first, but love was the language that needed no translation. They promised to support her through this, to be there every step of the way.

The rest of the evening was a whirlwind of questions and explanations, tears and laughter. Alexis showed them how to do her hair, and her dad fumbled with a makeup brush, trying to replicate the way she had applied her blush. Her mom listened intently, nodding and smiling, her eyes never leaving Alexis's face.

As the days turned into weeks, the neighborhood began to adjust to the new faces that walked its streets. The town had seen its share of transformations, so while there were whispers and stares, there was also a sense of solidarity. People were more understanding than Alexis had feared. They had all watched the news, heard the stories, and seen the pleas for acceptance from the families of the affected.

Alexis's parents enrolled her in a local support group, where she met other teens who had undergone the same experience. The group meetings were a lifeline, a place where she could share her fears and triumphs without judgment. They discussed everything from dealing with uncomfortable situations to navigating romantic relationships in their new bodies.

Aaron came around a lot too. Alexis' family was happy to meet him. He made a good impression. Alexis made a good impression on his parents as well. Aaron was right about his Dad being happy to have a son, even if he tried not to show it.

As the school year began again, the transformed students returned to their classes. The school had made some adjustments, with gender-neutral bathrooms and more inclusive curriculums. Alexis felt a mix of excitement and fear as she stepped into the hallways, her heart racing at the sight of her old friends. But she wasn't the only one who had changed.

Many of her classmates had undergone transformations as well, and they shared knowing glances, nods of solidarity. Some had embraced their new identities fully, strutting with confidence in their new skins. Others still bore the weight of their former selves, eyes downcast and shoulders hunched.

Chet surprised people. While reluctant at first she embraced her new life as Chloe. She was even started to grow her hair out.

Alexis found her old love for soccer had transformed into a love for cheerleading. It was surprisingly empowering to encourage others and show her school spirit. The team welcomed her with open arms, and she found herself fitting in more than she ever had before.

At the first home game, she watched as Aaron took the field, surprising everyone with his love for the game. Who knew that quiet, studious Alicia would turn into such a jock. She wasn't alone on the field either. Most of the football players were girls turned guys. The whole school was practically flipped, with only a small group of them like Jenny, Phil and Stacy, who were unchanged. It was actually Stacy who convinced Alexis to try being a cheerleader.

"You've got the spirit, now just get the moves," she had said with a wink.

The first game was a nerve-wracking experience. Alexis's old friends in the stands were looking at her with a mix of curiosity and support. She took a deep breath and started her routine. Her body moved with a grace she never knew she had, and she felt alive. The crowd cheered as she pulled off a high kick.

Aaron caught her eye as he made a particularly impressive tackle. His smile lit up the field, and she couldn't help but smile back. The game was close, but their team pulled ahead in the final minutes. As the clock struck zero, the cheerleaders and the football team rushed the field, engulfing each other in a celebratory embrace. Alexis found herself wrapped in Aaron's arms, their bodies pressed tightly together. For a moment, it felt like everything was back to normal.

Just a different kind than the one before.

The virus had changed a lot. It came and went for a couple of years, leaving more than half the teenage popular gender flipped. The media started calling it GB afterwards, surprisingly fitting considering what it did. It never came back either but something strange did happen to the children of those afflicted by it but that's another story...

THE END

Author’s note: As I’m sure all of you know, comments are life blood to an author. I’m not begging or demanding, but I certainly would appreciate anything you have to say (or ask). It doesn’t have to be long and involved, just give me your reaction to the story. Thanks in advance...EOF