A/N: Hi! Still brainstorming, wrote this chapter hoping to get the gears grinding and get the ball rolling. I hope you enjoy this chapter, at best that you somewhat like it. I was unsure how to write it. I will try to post again by the end of this weekend.

Huge Thanks to all of you guys who keep reading, follow and review:)

Disclaimer: I do not own Pride and Prejudice, all characters and rights belong to Jane Austen.

Ch. 36

Sunday:

*Hey Char, are you up? I need to vent*

Char:*Hey LizBiz, did your date with Darcy go that bad?*

*Char! It was not a date, plus Caroline was there. You'll never guess who we ran into! Lexie and John!*

Char:*Small world, did you guys talk?"

*No she said hi to us, but that was it ugh she was kinda snobby. I hate to say this, but my suspicions were right. She had a brand new dress, shoes, a Coach purse, and she had a silver necklace with an emerald. It was small but still*

Char:*So her boyfriend got her a couple of things, what's wrong with that?*

*If she cared about him nothing, I think she's just using him, I mean I watched them all night and it was obvious that he liked her, but she was her usual self. I wonder what he sees in her, if she isn't sleeping with him, why would someone like that be with her? She's more of Darcy's type*

Char:*Opposites attract. Just because she shows us one side of herself, doesn't mean that's how she is all the time. With the exception of her mood, Lexie is a great catch. She's pretty, smart, talented, she can dance and has a body to die for! Did you see how she was dancing, I never knew she could dance!*

*Yes, I'm fully aware of how she dances. Look I have known Lexie all of my life, she only has one mood. Plus even though John is hot, he's still a jerk! I told you about the way he spoke to her, plus she served him. Very ungentlemanly. So the only conclusion is that she is using him, just because she doesn't want to come home. Plus let's not forget about this Sawyer guy*

Char:*Well I guess you're usually right at reading people*

*:) Thanks for listening Char, Jane has been sad lately, plus I don't think she has heard any of the rumors*

Char:*No problem LizBiz, we are best friends after all, I'm here whenever you want to talk.*

*Thanks, well I'm gonna crash out, I'll see you tomorrow*

She lied awake, looking at the opposite side of the room. Her father had gotten her a bookshelf, a couch, and a TV to fill the space, and she had bought a couple of more posters. She wished more than anything she could have spoken to Jane but Jane was in a good mood and it had taken her a while to get there.

Either way she knew Jane would never have seen what Lizzie was talking about, she would have been to naive to believe that anyone could do what Lexie was doing. She still couldn't believe that Darcy was as bad as she told her.

"You know Lizzie, Charlie and I were speaking and I told him that I saw George at the mall today, and he told me even though he doesn't know exactly what happened between him and Will, he doesn't think George is a good guy." Jane told after she got back from Charlie's.

"Does he know him?" Lizzie asked a bit angry.

"Well no but-"

"Then he only knows what Darcy told him!" Jane was about to speak. "Look, I know Charlie is a good guy, and means well but of course he would believe Darcy. Which only makes him a good friend, but between Darcy and George, I'll continue to think of them the way I know them to be."

To be honest, she hadn't told Jane that she did have a small crush on George, she was hoping that he felt the same way, but she was just happy that she never went further with him, or let her feelings known. She wanted more in a relationship, than what Lexie and John had, she wanted what Jane and Charlie had.

Monday:

Looking outside Lizzie could tell that it was most likely going to rain. Though it made for a beautiful landscape, it didn't do her mood any good. It made her think of Lexie, Lexie loved it when it rained. Though Lexie never said anything, she always seemed in higher spirits than usual when it was cloudy.

Luckily Jane was in a happy mood which helped her a bit. The day went by extremely slow, her classes were a big blur, and she had good enough grades to blow off one day. She didn't even care that Darcy looked at her more than usual in class; her focus was outside the window. She thought of what Lexie was doing, and it hit her that she didn't even know her schedule.

"Hello Lizzie, I was wondering if I could have a word with you?" Billy accosted her as she walked into the cafeteria.

"Sure Billy, what's up?" She said bored.

"Well you see the thing is that, well um."

"Is this something that can wait I'm really hungry?"

"I'll make this quick, you look lovely today by the way." She looked down at what she was wearing; she had on a red t-shirt, with a green sweater over. She had on skinny jeans, and she wore her black high-top converse. As for her hair it was in a messy bun and she had some curls coming lose.

"We have known each other for a long time, and you'll be happy to know that you caught my eye." He tried to smile seductively but it looked really creepy.

"What?" She asked astonished, she wasn't sure she even heard her right.

"I know, I have had a secret crush on you for a long time, and I wouldn't have known you felt the same had your mother not let me know. But before I get carried away with my feelings, please let me tell of my reasons. "

"I-"

"I know you are not as beautiful as your sister Jane, or as smart and talented as Alexandra, at least you're not like your younger sisters but there is something about you. I know you will make me very happy. Not to mention that Mrs. De Bough has told me time and time again that I should find a nice girl which, I should have mentioned first. I know she would approve of you. She would even go as far as writing you a recommendation for the college of your choosing, knowing you are Alexandra's sister. And she knows you are somewhat as smart as her, knowing you skipped a grade. Now I know that it is customary for us to go on a date. My mother and I will pick you up at 8 on Friday. Wear some-"

Lizzie had felt her blood boiling and found she couldn't contain it anymore. "Billy! You forgot that I didn't give you an answer!" She cried, she waited a while to control from beating him to a bloody pulp. He gave her a smile. "Thank you? For your offer, but there is no way that I would ever say yes." She said as kindly as she could muster, not that it would have mattered, he chuckled and smiled.

"I know it is usual for girls to play hard to get, and I know how you like to tease. But I will oblige you and ask you once again, go out with me this Friday. I will pick you up at 8 o clock sharp."

"Look Collins, I am not a tease, nor do I play hard to get. I am sure that you could not make me happy, and I am the last girl on this earth that would make you happy."

"You do know that my father is your fathers boss, and-"

"Are you threatening to have my father fired over this? You do know that's blackmail right? I wonder what Mrs. De Bough would think of this, if I asked Alexandra to speak with her!" She was ready to lift her fist to his face, but thought of what Anne had done at the party.

Collins blanched. "Um no I am not I can assure you, I would never do such a thing! I was merely stating the facts, it might help your father out at work but no, I would never get him fired! I was just going to say that it is not as if you have a boyfriend and I've never seen you with one, you might not be asked again!"

"Look Collins, I'm sorry but please understand, my answer is still no. Please excuse me as I said before I am really hungry."

He looked as he was about to cry and instead of getting something to eat she made her way outside. She wasn't really all that hungry anyways.

Will had been watching intently as had Charlotte, Will followed Lizzie outside and Charlotte went to comfort Billy. She knew what had just happened she could tell that Billy liked Lizzie, not as much as Darcy did but he still liked her a lot. In a way she was a bit angry, she liked Billy, but no matter how much she tried he hadn't noticed. He was oblivious to her flirting, and he wasn't that bad. He just needed to be guided. She thought of the party, he really was a horrible dancer, but after she took him under her reigns he got better.

She was sitting outside looking up at the sky, she now hated cloudy days. She couldn't believe Collins! First he insults her and then he thinks he's doing her a favor by asking her out. As if she would ever go out with him. Then she thought about her mother, how could she tell Billy that she had a crush on him?! Poor him, it was all her mother's fault, then it hit her that her mother will probably find out. She was pulled out of her thoughts by a figure approaching her.

"Are you alright?" Darcy asked hesitantly but to Lizzie it sounded insincere.

"Peachy, how about yourself?" She said annoyed, this was the last person she wanted to speak to.

"Well it doesn't seem like you are all right."

"What business is it to you?" She asked getting angry. He could see the fire in her eyes.

"None, I just thought you might be hungry. I brought you my lunch. Well half of it anyways, it's just a peanut butter and strawberry preserve sandwich with wheat bread, and some potato chips. I got you chocolate milk from the cafeteria." He said sadly.

"Thank you but I find I have no appetite, even if it is half a lunch." He just nodded and got up to leave, leaving the brown lunch bag.

"Hey! Um you speak to Anne right, I mean she's your cousin?" He just nodded. "Does she speak about Lexie?"

"You should try speaking to her yourself." He said nonchalantly.

"Easier said than done, you don't know her like I do." She said sadly. He nodded again and turned, "You never answered the question, you know?"

"Yes, but I gave you a solution." He gave her a small smile and took off, knowing she just wanted to be left alone.

"Not a helpful one!" She said somewhat loudly as he walked away.

She rolled her eyes and got the bag and opened it and ate deep in thought.

Lexie woke up early, and pulled open the curtains. She smiled at the day; it was cloudy, she loved it when it looked like rain, the view, the clouds, the smell. Not to mention that she was the happiest she could ever remember being. John's family approved of her, Ashley's family liked her and she had the best friends anyone could ask for. She kept Friday's events in the back of her head, and decided to be happy now, and forget about the bad. She showered and took her time getting ready, knowing it would be hours until school started.

Sawyer dropped her off. She noticed that some people were looking at her, but that was normal. They still couldn't believe that she was dating John, even though it had been a week. She walked into the restroom before school started and was accosted by Taylor Adams and her friends.

"So Alexa, I heard you had a busy weekend." She sneered.

"Ok." Lexie said uninterested, this was nothing new really; she knew it was better to ignore her.

"You know I made a new friend a couple of weeks ago, I believe she is a mutual acquaintance." Lexie didn't answer and tried to walk into the stall, she was blocked. "She doesn't come here, she goes to Meryton High?" Lexie just looked at her uninterested. "Caroline Bingley?" Taylor said, Lexie remained emotionless, and tried to go around to use a different stall.

"If you could please excuse me, I came into the restroom for a reason." She said nonchalantly.

"You see she told me an interesting story over the weekend." She said ignoring her, trying to bait Lexie. "Apparently girls our Alexa here is a suicidal slut!" She said laughing and the other girls joined in.

Lexie found it hard to remain indifferent but just kept thinking of her day with John. "Is that why you were absent a whole week Alexa? Did you cut yourself too deep? Is that why someone like John would go out with you? He took pity on you and he's afraid you'll kill yourself like your mommy? Let me guess he used you promising sweet nothings and when he rejected you, you cut yourself?" She sneered in her face.

"Is there a point here? May I use the restroom now or should I find another one?"

"It's simple really, just break up with John, and we won't tell the whole school what we know."

"Apparently you know very little." She tried to walk out the front door but was stopped by Cindy. She felt her skirt lift up and turned around angrily to face Taylor.

"Oh my God it's true! Ugh you're leg is ugly! Look I'm only going to give you one last chance."

NO ONE IS TAKING HIM FROM US! A dark look came into her eyes and she smirked. "What is your problem with me Taylor, are you upset that John used you? You know he wouldn't get back with you even if I did break up with him right? He already got what he wanted from you."

Taylor blanched. "You little-"

"Bitch? Slut? You should look at yourself in the mirror if you're going to be saying those words to anyone. " She said cutting her off still smiling. "Did you ever tell Cindy that you were sleeping with him the whole time they dated?" She heard a gasp and the door open behind her.

Taylor's hand hit her face so fast it stung. Lexie snapped and punched her in the nose; she could tell it must have broken from Taylor's cry of pain. It snapped her back into reality. He eyes widened and Taylor told her that she was in big trouble. "Don't you know who I am? You're going to pay, you nobody!" She said as her and her friends ran out of the restroom.

She didn't know what to do, she couldn't think. She turned on the faucet and turned on the cold water, she wet her face a couple of times. She stared at the mirror empty, and heard the door open and close. A man's voice broke her trance.

"Ms. Bennet, please come with me." Mr. Daniels the principal told her. She didn't move and felt someone touch her.

"Don't touch me!" She pulled away.

"Alexa, please don't make me force you." She looked at him, trying to comprehend; he had a sad look in his eyes, and followed him.

She explained what had transpired and what was said. In the end it did not matter, she was merely a scholarship student and Taylor's parents actually paid tuition. Apparently she did break her nose; it was not as if she meant to, she just didn't know her own strength. She was going to be expelled.

She called Sawyer, and he came to pick her up, everyone would be going into their second period, and she waited until the halls cleared not wanting to be seen by anyone. She had a message from Anne, John, and Hurst asking where she was, but did not answer them. They would find out soon. They gathered all her items from her locker and she explained to Sawyer what happened. He looked angry, but didn't say anything she didn't want him to. It started to sprinkle. She asked him to stop by to see Aries, she needed a distraction, she needed to ride him.

"Hi Aries, I missed you so much! Well I know I came yesterday, but we haven't been alone in a long time. Do you like it here? Do they treat you nice?" She touched his head and leaned into hug him. She pulled out her phone and called John knowing he wouldn't answer she just needed to hear his voice.

*Don't know if you've heard it through the grapevine, it won't be long until everyone knows, but I punched Taylor and broke her nose, I was expelled. She knows about the rumors from Fri. We need to talk*

She sent the message, her heart breaking. There was no way he would be with her now, not after the rumors spread. Then there was the fact that Mrs. Adams, would make sure her friends knew what happened. Mrs. Drake would soon find out, along with Jenny, Mrs. Hurst and Mrs. De Bough. Grace would only add to everything, to protect Rose. She sent everyone a message, but she didn't ask that they speak.

"Remember how I told you that I was going to stop taking my medicine? Well it seems like I was right, it is hard to control my emotions. It seems like every time something good happens, it is replaced by something bad. Do you think that's normal? Is that how life is supposed to be? Maybe it's better to feel nothing at all. Like hoping, if you never feel the good, then anything bad just seems normal right?" Aries nodded and neighed. She kissed him and sighed.

"I got expelled for hitting a girl at school today. I broke her nose. She was being mean and threatened to spread rumors about me at school if I didn't break up with John. Not that it will matter by tomorrow, everyone will know and he won't want me anymore. I guess she won after all. I hated that I lost control, had I just thought logically but no, the monster came out. It felt nice to let that evil take over, but a bit frightening." Tears started falling from her eyes. "I think-I know it is better to separate myself from him, it's for the best. All I'm doing is dragging him down; it seems like a never ending ordeal. I can start taking the original dose, I can go back and he can be happy." She said unsure.

John:*Are you home?*

*We stopped to get some soup, but we're almost there*

John:*I'm on my way*

*We can speak after school*

He didn't answer, they got home and Sawyer had not said anything. He just kept looking at her, and she asked him to please leave her alone informing him that John was coming. He saw the tears fall from her eyes, and knew it was not a good thing.

She changed into an old pair of jeans and her favorite plaid button up shirt. She braided her hair and removed her make up. She looked like her old self. There was a knock. She forgot that the lobby wouldn't notify her when he got here, he was on the list. She held her head up as she opened the door. John looked like hell, his tie was loose, his hair was disheveled. He knew what was going to happen. She didn't hug him, she didn't smile, she just let him in.

"Would you like anything to drink?" He shook his no, and followed her to the living room. She sat down and he came to sit next to her. She put distance between them and turned to speak. He grabbed her and kissed her.

"You are not leaving me Lexie, I won't let you." He said darkly, and stroked her face.

"But-" He pulled her over him to straddle him and kissed her deeply. He stood them up and walked into her room without breaking their kiss.

They didn't say anything, as he laid on top of her, they kissed more frantically. No more words were spoken between them.

"You're mine Lexie, and I'm yours. I'm not letting you go, not now, not ever."

"Please don't say things like that to me John." She tried getting off of him but he held her.

"Tell me what happened."

"Can we get dressed first?"

He didn't say anything he just tightened his grip, and she laid back on his chest telling him everything verbatim.

"I am sorry, I shouldn't have reviled what you told me." She sighed. "You should really speak with Cindy, I know she must be really upset, but at the time I didn't care. Now I feel horrible."

"You were attacked and provoked, I'm going to speak to my grandparents, to see if we can get you back in school." She pulled away from him and sat up.

"Please don't. I don't want to go back, I-Why do you have this effect on me?! This wasn't supposed to happen!" She stood up and pulled the cover with her. "I want you to-" she turned her back to him. "I want you to leave John. Please." She said quietly.

He stood up and turned her around. "I can't, and I know you really don't want me to."

"I do," she said looking away.

He grabbed her face to meet her eyes. "Look me in the eye and tell me that."

She looked at him, her eyes filled with determination. She looked into his hazel eyes and hugged him dropping the cover. "I don't want to bring you down with me John. I don't want you to suffer because of me, I don't-I'm broken and your life with me will only cause you pain and misery. You'll find someone better, it will hurt for a while, but you can be happy again."

She started to cry, and he picked her up carrying her to the bed. She cried all of her feelings out again, and he just held her. He was going to try and break this habit of hers, it wasn't good for her to hold everything in. She fell asleep and he dressed her in his shirt. He tucked her in, got dressed and kissed her.

He walked into the living room to call his grandfather, and saw that Sawyer was sitting uncomfortably at the paino.

"I heard her crying...I thought that you wouldn't be here."

John just nodded and sat across from him. "She holds everything in and when and if she cries, everything comes out."

"I spoke to Edward, he's going to come down and pay her tuition or see what she wants to do." John nodded, "Just so you are aware, he is considering having her move in with him and his family. He's going to try and convince her."

John looked up at him. "He can't do that; she has to learn to deal with it. People will always talk. Edward should know this, and you do too."

Sawyer nodded in agreement. "Why did you not let her break up with you?" He said knowingly.

"I love her."

"Have you never heard 'If you love somebody, let them go, for if they return, they were always yours-"

"And if they don't, they never were." John finished for him. "Yes, but she doesn't want me to let her go, nor do I want to."

"That's a good idea. I always believed that line was crap anyways." He said with venom.

"You speak from experience I take it. Do you wish you could go back?" Sawyer looked at the bedroom and nodded.

"I believe things happen for a reason."

"So if she broke up with you, you would accept it, making the quote valid."

John froze in shock, and thought about it.

Mrs. De Bough followed the sound of the heavy music blaring throughout her home. She was angry, Anne knew better than to play her music so loud, if this could even be called music. She walked into her studio. Anne was throwing paint at the canvas in anger and she had tears falling from her eyes.

Catherine went to the radio and pulled the plug. Anne stared daggers into her. "You are not allowed in here! Leave!" Anne told her. She felt as if she had just been slapped.

"Anne Darlene Ruth De Bough I am your mother and you will not speak to me that way, this is my house an-"

"No, this is not your house, it is my father's he pays for everything and you work to pass your wonderful wisdom onto kids! You do not cook, you do not clean, and you sure as hell never have people over! You just live here! You never ask how I am doing, how my day was, all you care about is yourself!" Anne spat and throwing more and more paint.

"Anne! Come over here now!" She raised her voice.

"Why, are you going to slap me mother? Will you punish me for disobeying you, The great Catherine De Bough?!"

"Anne get over hear now!" She demanded seething.

"I told you to leave!"

"Anne please tell me what has made you so upset?" She asked calmly and sat down.

"I might as well tell you, since you're going to find out. You might as well know the truth!" She huffed and went to sit across from her. Anne calmly explained what had happened on Friday, including that Lexie and John were dating, and what happened today at school.

"It is a good thing then, it is best to distance yourself from her now-"

"I knew it! I knew you would say that! Let me make one thing clear mother, Lexie is my best friend. She is my sister and nothing you can do will keep me away from her. I can assure you if you even tried or if that thought should enter your mind again, as soon as I turn 18 I will move out and go live with her and you will never see me again! Now I told you what you wanted to know. Leave!"

"Anne-"

"I wish to be alone, please." She stood and went back to painting.

She was walking down the stairs of an unfamiliar house very cautiously and kept glancing around. She seemed to know where she was going, she was trying to avoid something. She had her hand protectively around her swollen belly. She walked into the living room and looked around, there was a little girl and boy playing. A lady there looked at her with wide eyes as if she had been caught.

"Mommy!" They came running up to her and she struggled to bend down and hug them both. She looked at the lady and the lady pardoned herself.

She was about to say something, "Darling what are you doing out of bed?" He scolded. She would recognize his voice anywhere. She tried to stand, and he came to help her laughing. He kissed the top of her head.

"I was anxious." She pouted.

"You should have called me then, I'm sure I could have helped you get rid of all that energy." He leaned down and kissed her passionately, one of his hands it the base of her neck and the other running down her spine.

"Mine!" The little boy came to hug her legs and pushed John away. They broke apart laughing.

"I can't believe my own son wants to take you away from me." He picked up the boy and tickled him.

"It's the terrible two's."

"He's just a mommy's boy. Aren't you?"

The little girl was tugging at his pant legs. "And you my little one are daddy's girl." She bent down again and tickled the little girl.

"I have two girls, thank you very much."

She woke up and looked around and then down at herself. She was wearing John's button shirt so she knew he must still be here. The other side of the bed was cold, and she stood to use the restroom. She put on her pants and laid back down thinking about the dream. She placed a hand on her stomach and looked down at it. Her eyes began to water, and she curled into a ball, letting the tears flow freely.

John and Sawyer heard her crying, and he went into the room. She was lying on the bed curled into a ball. He lay behind her and hugged her to his chest. She turned around and wrapped her arms around him.

"What's wrong darling?" She let out a big sob at the name. He waited until she calmed down.

"I hate myself for feeling, and then I begin to hate myself for thinking such a thought when I have-when I think about you."

"You still have me. Right? You still wish to be with me?" She didn't answer and he panicked until he heard a small yes. He smiled and kissed the top of her head.

"That is if you still want to be with me. I um- I know it would be best if we weren't together-"

He grabbed her face and kissed her. "Best for whom?"

"For you."

"No, it wouldn't. I can't let you go, I'm addicted." He said into her neck causing her to giggle. "I already spoke to my grandparents and Jenny. So if they hear anything they already know the truth."

She nodded, "I find that I hate Elizabeth, and Kitty." She said darkly.

"You should have told her." He stated. She looked at him sharply and she gave him a small smile.

"Should have, could have, would have, don't believe in it. It is what it is; so to say….I know she isn't the one who said those awful things, but she told someone something, and it got back to Kitty and Rose."

"You don't think anyone else might have heard you?"

"Will did and he didn't seem to think so horribly. No one knew us there," She sat up. "I know her, I have realized so much since leaving. When we were younger I got blamed for everything she would do. She would throw me under the bus and always pick at me with her teasing. I hate that, just be straight forward. You know she should have asked, could have. It's a two way street and now I have to live with the consequences. While she gets to keep being carefree."

"I was speaking to Sawyer, your uncle is coming down on Wednesday. He is either going to pay your tuition, or…." She turned to look at him. "He is going to try and convince you to go live with him and his family." He said sadly. "I told Sawyer that I would be the one to tell you."

She nodded and sat down Indian style. He sat up and placed his head on her shoulder. "What are you thinking?"

"I do not know if they would take me back, but Mr. Daniels did say he hated to expel me. Did he tell you where they live?" He shook his head no. "Would we still be dating if I left? Could I come visit you?" She asked bravely.

"Yes. We have the weekends, and holidays." She nodded. "You know Lexie, people will always talk, and have something negative to say. Especially in our society, all the housewives have to keep themselves entertained is gossip. They do not work, they have no responsibilities." She nodded again and rested her head on his.

"I-I had this dream. We were us but I don't know any specifics, we had two kids a boy and a girl and I was pregnant. You still loved me as much as you do now, we seemed happy." She said quietly.

"Really?" He lifted his head up and gave her his biggest smile. She smiled to and nodded. "I like that dream a lot." He kissed her.

"My ideal dream would be to live on an island where only our friends and family can come visit us. We wouldn't have to worry about the evils of the world, and neither would our kids."

He kissed her with such a force she was thrown back. She looked up at him. His big smile still on his face. "That's the first time you ever spoke of a future with me." He closed his eyes and gave her another kiss.

Tuesday:

The phone was ringing and she looked at the clock, it was 7:30 and she realized she had slept in. Sawyer must have answered it, a while later he was knocking at her door. Apparently Mrs. De Bough was here. She told him to let them send her up and she told him to keep her company while she quickly showered. She took the fastest shower she ever had and grabbed the jeans she wore yesterday and a random shirt from the closet. She brushed her hair and teeth and left her hair down. As she walked into the living room she felt weird getting ready so quickly it was unlike her.

"Mrs. De Bough, please forgive me, I overslept. Then again your visit is unexpected….Oh my! Is Anne alright?" She asked worriedly.

"Anne is fine, I came to speak to you about personal matters." She said sternly.

She nodded, "Would you like some tea or coffee?"

"No." She sat down. "Anne has told me something most disturbing."

"Yes I know, she called me afterwards; I managed to calm her down somewhat, I reassured her I was not angry for telling you, she is coming over after school."

Mrs. De Bough looked around with a disdained face. "You have a nice home, what is it that the Burton's do?"

"To be honest I do not know, they have not told me. I will be going with them for the Thanksgiving holiday." She said happily.

Sawyer excused himself. "That man says very little."

"Yes I know, but he is a good body guard. You said you wish to speak to me?"

"Yes, Anne has never spoken to me the way she did yesterday evening, it was most shocking to say the least. Yes, she has been more assertive but nothing like yesterday." Lexie nodded knowingly. "You must think I am a horrible mother too." Lexie met her eyes, and was about to speak but was silenced by a hand. "You have quickly become acquainted with the way people gossip, I was only trying to prepare her for the way of our society."

"It is better to be feared than to be loved." Lexie cut in understanding.

"Yes, a lady in our position must be able to hold her head up no matter what. People will always talk, attack and try to make us feel inferior; it is better to beat them to the punch. I am sure you understand."

"I understand it, but I am afraid I cannot follow that logic."

"Alexa, you are a young, beautiful, intelligent, talented woman. You have endured so much, and you still have your whole life ahead of you. Life is a bitch and we must be too." Lexie looked at her in amazement. "Others feel threatened by you, I am sure you could find a middle ground but if you do not, you are allowing those people to win. In our world it is build you up to break you down. Your friends are your enemies."

"My friends would never hurt me." Lexie said a bit angry.

"Not the ones you have now, don't you think people will want to befriend you once they find out you are wealthy." She looked around again.

"I had not thought about it, I supposed I did not think much would change."

"Silly girl, of course things are going to change, money is the root of all evil, but it is also a necessity. Your connections will also be a target for others. But I am sure you would be able to pick them apart. Now get ready, I did not take the morning off just to speak to you."

"What shall I change into?" Lexie asked.

"Your school uniform, and whatever you require for the day."

"I am sorry but I was under the impression Anne told you everything you-"

"I am aware of what transpired, now do not take up more of my time, I would like to go to work. In all my years of teaching I have never needed a substitute."

Lexie gave her a small smile and went to change. She called Sawyer and explained what happened. She rode with Mrs. De Bough and Sawyer followed behind.

"Mr. Daniels, Mrs. De Bough is here to speak with you, she says it is important." His secretary called him nervously. He cringed internally.

"Send her in." He took a deep breath in and plastered a smile on his face.

"Mrs. De Bough! What a lovely surprise. Alexa? What are you doing here?"

"She is here with me of course." She sat down. "Sit down Alexa, I do not like people to stand behind me. I was informed that Alexa was expelled yesterday, and I would like to know why and what actions are taking place in concern with Ms. Adams."

"Did she tell you what happened?"

"I was informed." She said condescendingly.

"Well you see she is here on a scholarship and Ms. Adams parents actually pay tuition, seeing as-"

"Ms. Adams also struck Alexa, and was bullying her. Are you telling me that the school condones bullying? I can assure you Meryton High frowns down at such an act and is also a cause for suspension even expulsion ."

"No of course not-" He blanched, "You see-"

"I am also aware that Ms. Adams merely attends school here. She is not in any AP classes, nor in any extracurricular activities. I am sure if I went down to the trophy case a majority of those academic and performance awards from the past three years will have Alexa's name on them. Not to mention the ones she got in grade school and junior high. It seems she has done more for this school than Ms. Adams has and yet you have the nerve to expel only Alexa."

"Yes, well my hands are tied." Mr. Daniels said bravely.

"Allow me to untie them then, here is a check for Alexa's tuition. Now I am very busy and need to get to work Alexa wait until your next class starts." She said standing up.

"Mrs. De Bough I am afraid it is not that simple." Mr. Daniels stood to stop her.

"Then you have been wasting my time and should have said so in the first place. The only problem you informed me of was that she was a scholarship student, well I solved that problem. The only other problem I can think of is her condition. Do you have a problem with Alexa because of her disorder? If you wish to waste more of my time, then I will speak to the superintendent, my husband and he are close friends, or do I need to go higher on the school board?" She threatened.

"Um no of course not. Mrs. Reese, please make a note for Ms. Bennet's teachers informing them Alexa is no longer expelled and excuse her absences for yesterday and this morning." He hung up the phone. "Mrs. De Bough a pleasure as always."

She did not say anything she just stood and left. Lexie gave Mr. Daniels an apologetic look and left after her.

"Mrs. De Bough, you did not have to pay my tuition, my uncle was coming down tomorrow just that."

"Then he may make out the check to me." She said nonchalantly.

Lexie dropped her bag and gave Mrs. De Bough a hug. "Thank you so much." She stiffened, and then relaxed letting the warmth engulf her. She found herself wrapping her arms around Lexie and then lifted her head up.

"Remember, keep your chin up and do not let them know they got to you. I know you have it in you from what you told Ms. Adams."

"You taught Anne well, and I have learned from you as well. You are a great teacher."

"I know." She pulled away and fixed her outfit. She began to walk away.

"Mrs. De Bough, Anne loves you." She just nodded and walked away.

She was the first to arrive in class and handed the teacher the note. She was given yesterday's assignment and sat down before anyone entered. She was looking at the work as people entered the classroom. She felt everyone's eyes on her and she could hear them whispering about her. She flexed her fingers wanting to scratch herself but she was aware of it and stopped. Hurst walked in and went to sit behind her.

"Lexie?"

"I will explain at lunch." She said quietly picking her head up.

The rest of the day was the same. John saw her walk into the classroom and had a huge smile on his face. They walked together to lunch and everyone gave her a hug. She explained what happened and no one was more shocked than Anne. She followed Mrs. De Bough's advice throughout the day and no one bothered her. Luckily for her Taylor was absent, and her friends didn't even look at Lexie.

Saturday, November 15:

School for Lizzie had not gone like she expected, it seemed like there was more work to be done, and then there were her ACT's and SAT's. Her father was still around less and less and she also would see less of her younger sisters at the house. Jane was still in La La Land with Charlie, Darcy was still his cold self and much to her disappointment Collins still ate lunch with them. She had yet to speak to Lexie, the more she thought of it the more she was positive it was for the best. She had heard that Lexie got expelled for punching a girl and beating her up. She really didn't know her.

Her mother seemed to have gotten over her rejecting Collin's rather quickly. Her punishment was the silent treatment which only lasted two whole days. Luckily her father backed her up, she knew he would. At first she was worried her father would at least make her go out on a date with him, but he agreed with her.

They were getting a two week vacation for Thanksgiving, and Jane and Charlie were finally going to go out on their own. She had been tired of always tagging along and getting stuck with Caroline and Darcy. She hadn't spoken to Wickham as much but they would ask each other how the other was. She would hear about him from Kitty and Lydia.

*Hey Char, what are you up to?* It took her a while to text back.

Char:*Not much, what's up?*

*I was wonderin if you wanted to sleep over, Jane is finally going on a date alone w Charlie, and Kitty and Lid are staying at Mary Kings*

Char:*Oh well I can't tonight….I have a date*

Char:*With Bill Collins*

Lizzie had to read the message four times and was still in disbelief. She quickly called Charlotte. No wonder he still ate with them.

"You're going to go out with Billy Collins?! But he's-he's ridiculous!" She exclaimed.

"Why are you so shocked Lizzie did you think it was impossible for him to like anyone else but you?"

"No Char, I didn't mean it like that, I'm just surprised that's all but if you like him then I'm happy for you. So how long have you been dating?"

"Two weeks this Tuesday." She said nervously. He asked her out right after me!

"That's cool, so you'll um let me know how your date goes?"

"Yes, thank you for being supportive Lizzie. I know you believe in going out with someone you really like, but not all of us can be so fortunate. I do like him enough, he isn't all that bad you know."

"Well no, I am afraid you have spoken to him more than I have." She forced a giggle.

"Ok, well my mom wants me to try everything on in my closet so I have to go. I'll text you tonight."

Sunday:

Lizzie woke up early and was getting ready to go for a jog. She passed by Jane's room and heard her crying. She knocked and entered. Jane was at her computer sobbing.

"Jane! What happened? Are you ok?" She ran up to her and hugged her and tried not to look at the computer.

"I-it-it's Charlie!" She cried louder, "H-he-he broke up with me!"

"What! No way? I thought you guys had a good time last night?" She started to wail and Lizzie tried her best to comfort her. She had never seen Jane cry this bad.

"I-I thought so too, but when I woke up, I had an email from him and Caroline." She said finally calming down, and sighed. "Go ahead and read them."

Lizzie looked at the screen.

Dear Jane,

I am sorry, there is no easy way to say this but my family and I will not be coming back after Thanksgiving break. I don't think we will even come back for the next semester. Will really wants to finish going to school near his home, and my father has business to attend to. I think you are a nice girl and I don't think a long distance relationship would work out for us. It would be best if we just agreed to see other people and it would be better if we did not keep in contact either. I wish you the best in life. Charles Bingley.

My Dearest Jane,

I don't know if Charlie told you last night, but we won't be coming back for the rest of the school year. My mom had told us that the move here would be temporary but we were here so long I thought they had changed their mind. I just wanted you to know that it was nice getting to know you, and I hope we can still keep in touch. I don't know if Charlie ever told you he has had a lot of girlfriends, but you are the only one I really liked. I am so happy, we're finally going home. Georgie, (Will's sister) was my really good friend and I know that Charlie really liked her and I'm hoping that we will be closer than we already were. You could say we were almost like sisters. Well I'll let you go, I hope you and your family have a Happy Thanksgiving. I'll write once I'm settled in. Lots of love –Caroline Bingley.

"He didn't tell you anything last night?" Lizzie asked her sadly.

"No I don't get it, I mean he was a little more…passionate last night, but he didn't even tell me he was leaving. I can't believe I thought he liked me."

"He does like you Jane."

"Then why didn't he tell me anything? Why would he just leave? She said they were only here for a while!"

"Maybe Caroline had something to do with it."

"No, she wouldn't do something like that. Plus Charlie is a grown man, he should have said something. I guess I was just another one of his many girlfriends."

Lizzie just hugged Jane, "I'm sure you meant more to him than that."

Long Lost Millionaire

Mr. Thomas Burton and Mrs. Chelsea Burton of North Park, Colorado have finally found their long lost granddaughter, Alexandra Bennet 17 from Lamboton, Texas. Her mother Ashley Burton passed away 16 years ago and gave her daughter up for adoption, unknown to the family at the time. Upon Ashley's passing, it was discovered that they had a granddaughter, but were never able to locate her. After 16 long years of waiting, Ms. Bennet discovered that she was adopted and went in search for her mother not knowing she was deceased. Imagine her surprise when she discovered that The Burton's who are #16 on Forbes Billionaire list were her new family.

It is estimated that Ms. Bennet has inherited over 10 million dollars from her mother and great-grandfather Roger Burton who made his money by buying a land in the dessert and discovering vast copper mines, pulling out 18 million dollars of copper every year. With wise investments ranging from casinos, jewelry, clothing, and retail ect. he quickly became a billionaire. Mr. Thomas Burton now runs the empire along with his son Edward Burton. (Below) We caught a glimpse of Ms. Bennet with The Burton's traveling to their vacation home in the south of Florida to spend the Thanksgiving Holiday. The family asks for privacy as they get acquainted with one another.

Not much is known about Ms. Bennet, not even how much money she actually has to her name. For sure we will be watching and waiting to find out more about this young and beautiful heiress.

"AHHHHH!" Rose shrieked into the telephone.

"All you all right Alexa?" Mrs. Burton asked.

"I just felt a shiver run down my spine."

"Mom! MOM!" Lizzie was fanning there mother who had fainted onto the floor. "Jane what happened?"

"Ok thank you Aunt Gracie." Jane hung up the receiver.

Lydia and Kitty ran into the room. "What happened?" James walked in and picked up Rose to carry here to the couch.

"I think everyone should sit down, if mom reacted this way, I don't know how anyone else will react." Jane sat down as calmly as possible.

"Jane, what happened, is Aunt Grace ok?"

"Well she's a bit shaken up, but everyone is fine."

"Well?"

"Have you read the paper this morning dad?"

Kitty and Lydia ran to the door to get the paper, and started to fight over it. James walked up to them and took it from them. Everyone could see him turning red, and getting angrier by the minute. He scrunched up the paper and went into his office without saying a word taking the paper with him.

"Ok Jane, spill!" Said Lydia sitting down and waiting excitingly.

"Well apparently Lexie's mom was rich."

"How rich?"

"I don't know, but apparently Lexie inherited over millions dollars."

"WHAT! That is totally not fair!"

"Are you saying Debbie Downer is rich?"

Jane snapped her head up but said nothing. She excused herself and went to her room, ignoring everyone including Lizzie.