No, Really, I Am an American

“So this is the infamous Jessi Pepsi.”

Something about those words coming from Matt’s replacement rings funny in my ears.

“Infamous?” I turn to Connie. “Why am I infamous?”

“Because we talk about you,” Connie replies casually.

“Is that a good thing or a bad thing?” I’m almost afraid to ask.

“All good things.”

My reputation precedes me.

I never thought I would be memorable.

Walking down through the Airport Lounge, I’m spotted again. Erin Dixon comes and gives me a big hug. “Jessi!” she exclaims happily. She pulls back and smirks, “Oh come on, it’s one hug. It’s not gonna kill you.”

It’s not long before Sandi sees me. She comes to find out the latest. She’s happy and excited for me. “Be sure to send an e-mail!”

Walking to Potbellies, I run into Allyson.

“Gosh you’re popular,” Janet remarks.

Pffft. Just because it’s taken a lot longer to go to lunch than we first anticipated doesn’t mean anything.

In the restaurant, one of my former students has a cheery greeting for me as well.

Is this what it feels like to be popular?