Timid Terry
There was something unusual about Terry. Although quiet and timid, she often made people around her fe uneasy. The seventh graders in Caustic Middle School steered clear of Terry. She had established her position at school as a bona fide loner. Finally, one day, one girl showed a genuine interest in her.
Soumya, the brightest student in class, wanted to be Terry's friend. Soumya's warm greetings each morning at the bus stop cheered up Terry. To Terry's lonely ears, Soumya's words sounded like someone playing flutes.
Soumya did not care at all if Terry walked and talked slowly or dressed awkwardly. She invited Terry to her house and even wanted to be study partners.
One day, however, on their way to school, Soumya was quiet. The silence was heavy. Terry did not say a word, as usual, and waited for the bus to stop so that she could get away from the uncomfortable situation. Soumya searched for the right words to say and finally asked Terry a difficult question. "Do you not want to be my friend?" Terry was prepared for this question and uttered her well-rehearsed speech. "I try to save myself from misery. I expect you to run off and leave me alone as the others always do!" Terry responded. "I guess I have been through this situation many times. I have learned not to be hurt." She hugged her backpack tightly and got up from the seat.
"Oh Terry! Don't make me sound like your nemesis! I don't have secret plans to ruin your life! True friends do exist, but you have to do your part, too!" Soumya replied, with equal melodrama.
Soumya stared at Terry, demanding attention. After what felt like hours, she saw Terry's downcast eyes slowly turn toward her. There was a hint of a smile on Terry's face. Terry's glistening eyes finally told Soumya everything Terry could not say.
Which of the following can the reader infer about Terry?
A. She invites her friends to her home often.
B. She dislikes facing uncomfortable situations.
C. She has always been the better friend.
D. She loathes her classmates' companionship.