Dude, he said, Calm down. This was something I hated being told, especially by a boy. My voice might rise half an octave, I thought of telling him, but there's no need to take cover - I will not leap from my chair to embrace you, I will not even shriek with delight.
The narrator expresses frustration at being told to "calm down," particularly when it comes from a boy. This phrase triggers a strong reaction, highlighting her sensitivity to the implications behind it. She feels a mix of irritation and defiance, contemplating a rebuttal about how her voice might rise but insisting that her reaction won't be as extreme as he assumes.
This moment underscores the narrator's awareness of her emotions and the societal expectations placed on her. She reflects on how these interactions frustrate her, emphasizing her desire for autonomy over her feelings rather than conforming to someone's notion of appropriate behavior.
