Feeling a warm wash on my face, I allowed myself to lie in my spot on the
plush powder blue carpet for a while longer. Not opening my eyes, imagining
I was in a place where I could smile, and actually mean it. Sure, I smiled.
But how often had the smile been caused from happiness or laughter. I heard
a small click, with soft music pouring out of the tiny holes as an after
effect. Hearing my alarm clock go off, I knew it was seven o'clock in the
morning. My eyes fluttered open slowly, seeing a familiar object infront of
me. Inside the mirror was a girl with a tear streaked face, her hair messy
and strewn everywhere. Dark purple bruises were forming on her shoulders
and arms, a black circle slightly swelling her eye shut. Her world seemed
so dark, uneasy. Not being able to look anymore, afraid I would see
something I was trying to avoid, I flipped onto my back instead. Hanging
from my ceiling were different colored stars. I am obsessed, aren't I?
Fluffing the pillow under my head slightly, I noticed the large bump
forming on the side. A slight throbbing pounding inside, I put a hand to my
forehead, trying to ease the constant beating. Realizing the bright sun
streaming in wasn't helping any, I decided to get up.
Resting on my hands and knees I thought lowering my head might subside the pain somewhat. Only causing it to grow louder, I decided to take the final leap and try to stand up. Using the dresser for support, I lifted myself higher from my spot in the corner, my limbs shaking from the previous night. Wearily walking to the closet, I shoved it open, revealing a closet full of clothes. A pair of overalls, tan coloured corduroy jeans, various pairs of blue jeans, t-shirts and sweaters hung inside lazily on the silver bar. Pulling a lightpink sweater out and my tan corduroys, I slipped them on slowly, still groggy from sleep. Flicking the light on in the bathroom, the girl from the mirror greeted me again. Averting my eyes, I picked up a comb, sorting through the golden mass on my head. Grabbing a white ponytail holder, I gathered my hair up to the top of my head, tying it in place in its two-bun style. Taking one last look in the mirror, I noticed the girl was beginning to look closer to normal by the minute.
I smelt the fresh scent of morning brewed coffee hanging in the air. Slowly making my way down the wood stairs, I prepared for another day of lies and truth. In my mind, thoughts echoed, hitting certain parts and pouncing on my mind like wild fire. Maybe things will be different today. I might come down the stairs, seeing a family I never saw before, encasing me in warm hugs, surrounding me with love. Maybe even giving me the gift of a new life, letting me start over, and not be afraid to trust anyone. I knew I was kidding myself, setting up unreal goals, only cramping myself in a small box of being let down again. I can dream can't I?
Rounding the corner to our kitchen, I took in my surroundings. A small oak table adorned with a yellow tablecloth sat in the center. Counters of canary blue tiles lined three walls, stopping where a bookshel sat, holding a small white T.V. Plants of bright green hung from the far corner to my left, vines placed gracefully along the top of the oak cupboards created an exotic aura. White appliances decorated the room, as bright sunshine poured over the silver utencils hanging on the wall. A woman with grey-lilac hair in a loose bun stood infront of the oven, eggs sizling from the black pan. Wearing a blue dress with a floral apron tied around her thin waist, she hummed a song over the faint sounds of a newscaster in the background. Funny how someone so innocent could act so strong, knowing nothing of my many nights of pain.
Then I saw him. Sitting at the table, diligently smoking his cigarette and reading the morning paper. I wondered if he even remembered last night, noticing the smell of strong alchohol on his breath then. My mother, looking over her shoulder, gave me a weak smile, tiredness streaming from her eyes. My father folded the paper, placing his cigarette in the glass ashtray. He looked up, and blue crashed against brown. Feeling small, I slinked into my chair, across the square table from him. Averting my eyes to the world outside, I peered through the opening in the yellow curtains. The sun was already high in the sky; light puffy clouds were placed evenly throughout the sky. Being fall, orange, red and gold leaves hung onto the trees, some being sacrificed to the warm autumn wind outside.
Noticing a small china plate with blue designs sitting infront of me, I looked over the contents sitting silently, getting cold. Scrambled eggs with cheese, two pieces of toast, about four pieces of bacon and hashbrowns crisped a nice golden. I smiled just smelling the fragrance of my morning meal, my mouth wattering, wishing to taste the warm food. Silently picking up my silver fork, I scooped up a small helping of eggs, blowing on it gently to let it cool down. Feling my fathers stare on me, I felt uncomfortable, but told myself I wouldn't let him ruin this. Placing the contents in my mouth, I chewed slowly, savouring the fresh taste. If there was one thing I was good at, it was eating, ask anyone who knows me.
"This is really great, mom!" I smiled at her, placing more of the breakfast on my fork. She turned to me, folding her hands infront. Her blue, almost amethyst eyes glittered, saying 'happy' but radiating something different. "I'd say this is your best yet! Well, if that's possible." I winked at her, causing her face to turn to a small smile, giggles echoing through the room. I loved it when she smiled. Lighting up the whole room, as my own used to do, she made me want to cry. She didn't deserve this. The dealing my father gave to her. I knew she knew about everything. You could see it in her eyes. How tired she was every morning, never looking at my father directly.
"Yes, it is quite exquisite. Wonderful job, Ikuko." He spoke. The sound sent chills up my spine. My mother winced at the tone of his voice, hanging her head slightly. A bitter sweetness dripping with sarcasm. This meant he was satisfied, but wanted more. I hated the bastard. Causing such a pure angel such ache. But, he was my father, so I respected him, as I should. He placed his napkin on the side of his dish, having finished the meal. Standing up, pushing the chair backwards he rounded the table, placing a hand on my shoulder as he went by. "Have a nice day, Serena." I jerked from his grasp, memories flooding in. Not today. Today was going to be my day. Smiling evily, he looked towards my mother, crossing his arms over his chest. "Ikuko, would you step into the living room for a minute, please? I need to talk to you about something." Looking up from her work, she walked over to him and past, her shoes softly padding the ground.
Knowing he was gone, I grabbed the remote control, changing the station to the music channel. A new song by my favourite artist rang through the kitchen. Singing along quiety, I picked up my dishes and rinsed them in the sink. Grabbing a glass from the cupboard, I poured myself a cold glass of milk, hoping to wake myself. I went over my life, trying to figure out where everything went wrong, like I do everyday. Pulling out my chair again, I sat down, my chin resting in one hand as I sipped the cold liquid silently. Deep in thought, I thought about school. Being one of the 'rich' schools, it was big and beautiful. Sienna brick walls with silver attatchments stood out in my small town. Inside, it was spotless and well kept. Large tiled rooms with long hallways, stairs to all three levels creating a maze. Secret pathways seemed to be discovered everyday. Yes, I was rich. Well, my family was anyways. My mother was a stay at home woman, cleaning and cooking like my dad liked it. Dad owned a big business, Stairwell Industries. A company that took calls from clueless persons, needing help to figure out internet and computer problems. Not that I held a grudge against these people, but calling about which button to press, 'continue' or 'delete'. It had to get annoying once in a while. Hearing a faint *whack* from somewhere in my house, I figured my father had left, slamming the door behind him. Good riddens, I though to myself, afraid it wasn't the door, and he may still be here.
My mother entered, her cheeks red. Instantly going to the sink, she filled it up with water, spraying soap into the mixture. Instantly, bubbles formed, as she placed all the moring dinnerware into the sink. I watched as she quietly went about her work, her mind obviously somewhere else in time.
"So, mom, what do you have planned for today? You're not just going to stay home all day, are you?" Turning in my chair to face her, she continued to wash, the dishes clanking being muffled by the water. "I mean, look outside! It's so wonderful out, I think you should go do something today. Besides, you deserve it after cooking such a wonderful meal." She laughed and came to pick up my empty glass. Placing a hand on my cheek, I felt the lines of old age and hard work on her. She smiled down at me, then turned back to the sink.
"Well, your father suggested I get some groceries today, only the necessities of course. Then, I was thinking of maybe going down to the library to check out some new books." Drying the dishes with a pink towel, she placed them in the correct cupboards with care. She treated things with such love. I hoped I would be just like my mother when I grew up. I smiled realizing her plans for the day. She was always such a bookworm, filled with intellegent information. Me, I was the opposite. Interested in things like music and magazines, my grades showed it.
"Well, that's good! Maybe after school today we can go window shopping!" I yelled from the living room, picking up my binder from it's home on the couch. Our living room was mainly dark red, cream, and gold. It was my favourite room. It seemed like such a comfortable room. Cream coloured chairs and a sofa with a matching coffee table lined the walls and center of the room. The table had gold markings on it, creating a cracked finish, which looked delicate yet sophisticated. Dark red curtains hung from the two large windows; one pulled to the side to let in some sun. The wood floors, walls and ceiling were light oak, and a T.V. stand of cream painted wood was on the far wall. Plants decorated this room as well; a small tree beside the T.V. stand, while plants in small red pots hung from the tall ceilings.
"I don't think so dear. Your father is coming home early, which means I have to get supper cooking before he gets here. Sorry, honey. Maybe tomorrow, okay?" Her melodical voice rang through the room as she peered her head around the corner, a dishtowel hanging from her shoulder. Dissappointed but still content, I smiled at her again. Realizing the time, I quickly picked up my book and ran down the stairs to the door. I put on my pink sandals and yelled a 'goodbye' to my mom. As I opened our door to the outside, I breathed in the fresh morning air. Free for another day.
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Looking up to the tall building infront of me, I tried not to scream. I knew it wasn't as bad as it looked, but such chaos rang through the interior. Well, I guess that's what you get for going to a rich highschool, and being in grade ten, no less. Walking confidently, my head high, I gathered my wits and walked to the front doors. Reaching towards the handles, I realized something wasn't right when I hit the ground. Propping myself up onto my elbows, I looked at my now open and scattered books, papers lying everywhere, blowing away. No point in trying to catch them now. I looked up to the door, and saw a form. A person, to be exact.Jet black hair, a bit longer than I liked, and startling blue eyes stared down at me. Sheepishly grinning, he looked at me, rubbing the back of his neck, obviosuly confused. The fact he was a male just registering in my mind, I began to get up.
"Here, let me help you." A hand reached down, offering its assictance. Noticing someone was actually attached to this hand, I figured it was the boy. Dressed in dark jeans, a black t-shirt and an oatmeal color sweater, I decided he couldn't do much harm. I grasped the hand firmly and used its strenth to prop myself up to the certain level.
"I'm Darien by the way. I just moved here yesterday." Bending down to pick up my books, I took in the information. Not being a rude person, I introduced myself as well.
"I'm Serena. I've gone here all my life. Not the greatest place but, you gotta have some kind of education, right?" Stupid, stupid, stupid. Why do I make such lame jokes? Punching myself inside, I reached out to take my books. Thinking I could maybe slip away and be invisible, I prepared to run a marathon against time itself. Suddenly I heard laughter. Looking up, Darien was laughing. And it wasn't fake either! I think he was actually laughing at my joke.what was wrong with this kid?
"Yeah, I think I'd drop out if my parents weren't so set on me being some rich doctor." Still in shock from his laughing, I stared at him. Why's he so open with me? Somethig was seriosuly wrong with him. Concern registering on his face, I tried to straighten under his intent stare.
"Um.is there something wrong?" I asked, hoping I didn't have egg stuck to the side of my mouth or something. He took a step closer, looking at my face. Oh no. The worst had actualy come true.
"Did you hit your eye or something when you fell?" Just remembernig I forgot makeup when I left my 'home', I kicked myself. How could I be so stupid? Maybe Lita has some.
"No, I got in a fight with my brother yesterday. We fight pretty rough." I laughed nervously, hoping he believed my lies. Thankfully he did. Maybe I could convince him to see the school counselor.
"Well, I'd hate to get in a fight with you then. I can imagine the shape your brothers in!" Laughing again, I giggled. Pondering what I should call my 'brother', I began to walk to the doors again. With Darien right behind me, we walked in together. People obviosuly thinking what they like, whispers were heard from various places. Some people were so sceptical.
"So, do you know where everything is? I mean, I could help you if you want. I've gone here forever, so I think I know where everything is. Well, that's what everyone thinks, but really, there are doors we never even knew of that we find everyday." I laughed as I walked down my hallway towards my locker. Getting stares from teachers, I tried to shrug it off. Probably just wondering who the new boy was. I stopped infront of a mint green locker with the number 427 written on the silver handle. Darien turned to allow me privacy while entering my combination. '24.16.38' I stated inside my head. Tugging on the silver lock, I popped it open and placed the lock on the small shelf inside. I plopped my binder inside, trying to figure out what to do about my lost notes and possibly assignments, when I noticed Darien shifting uncomfortably. People looked him over as they passed, realizing a new boy had entered our school. I replaced the lock again and turned to him.
"So, where's your schedule? Do you have a locker yet?" We stood there for a second. He hesitated and looked at me. Sighing, I took his hand and headed towards the front office. You think this stupid school would atleast give him information before letting him go in this heard of drones. As we weaved ourselves through the multiplying parasites called students, we eventually reached the front office door. Pushing open the glass door, the calls of the wild were left behind as it shut behind us.
An old woman with grey hair and gold rimmed glasses looked up from the desk. Stepping forward, I began to explain our 'reason for intruding'.
"Goodmorning!" I cooed, putting on a sweet smile. "I was wondering if you could help my friend here. You see, he just transferred here from.uh." I looked back at him, not remembering if he actually said where he was from.
"Mississippi." He spoke mater-of-factly. I smiled and turned back to the order at hand.
"Mississippi. It seems he hasn't received a locker number or schedule yet. I was wondering if you could possibly help us?" Making my innocent face, the lady smiled, turning to her computer screen. She clicked and typed as I studdied a poster hanging on the wall.
"Name?" She looked up at as over the top of her glasses. Donovan stepped forward as he realized I didn't know his last name.
"Darien Sheilds." He said, peering to the computer. So, Sheilds was his last name. Not knowing if it sounded protective or betraying, I turned back to the poster. It was too early to figure these things out.
Hearing the door open again, I looked back as three girls stepped in. One had short blue hair and blue eyes, the other chestnut hair with emerald green eyes, and the last long black hair with wide violet eyes. I walked over to them as they waved. Not feeling like talking to them right now, but knowing I had no choice, I put on my fake smile and said.
"Hey everyone! How are you today? I'm just helping Darien here get his schedule and stuff." I nodded back to the mysterious boy as I placed my hands in my back pockets. They all looked behind me, satisfaction registering on their faces. Even my friends had one track minds.Lita, the chestnut haired girl was the first to speak.
"That's cool. But what happenned to your eye? Did you two meet while boxing or something?" She leaned in closer. Why does everyone do that? It's not like its going to tip its hat and say hello, people!
"No, Lita, we ran into eachother this morning. Literally. And we started talking. He's new here, from Mississippi. I'm just helping him get settled." Seeing this as a reasonable explanation, I smiled approvingly. Raye flipped her long hair, obviously itching to say something. Us not always being the best of frineds, she had to find some way to lower my spirits. I'll bet she wouldn't if she knew what my life was actually all about.
"Yeah, he seems okay. More your type than mine, I'd say." Snarling her way, I couldn't believe she had the nerve to say these things. It's not like she knew Darien personally. Hearing footsteps behind me, I turned to see him standing uncomfortable. Pushing him forward, I introduced him to my group. Pointing to the short haired girl first, I began.
"This isAmy, that's Lita, and she'sRaye. Everyone, this is Darien Sheilds." He waved and smiled, the girls laughing shyly. Amy reached out her hand, a warm smile gracing her face. Too kind for her own good.
"It's nice to meet you Darien. I hope you're in some of my classes! Any friend of Serenas is a friend of ours." Taking her hand he politely shook it. Handing me his schedule and locker number, I looked them over.
"Wow! We have every class together except one. I have History in fifth and you have Physics. Raye's in that class though. She'll help you. Just try not to be around her when dealing with chemicals too much." I winked at her as she placed her hands on her hips, pouting and whimpering. I laughed just as the first bell rang.
"Your locker is on the second floor. So is Litas, so she'll help you. I'll see you in Math, okay!" I waved goodbye as I left the office towards my locker. Well, so much for freedom.
Resting on my hands and knees I thought lowering my head might subside the pain somewhat. Only causing it to grow louder, I decided to take the final leap and try to stand up. Using the dresser for support, I lifted myself higher from my spot in the corner, my limbs shaking from the previous night. Wearily walking to the closet, I shoved it open, revealing a closet full of clothes. A pair of overalls, tan coloured corduroy jeans, various pairs of blue jeans, t-shirts and sweaters hung inside lazily on the silver bar. Pulling a lightpink sweater out and my tan corduroys, I slipped them on slowly, still groggy from sleep. Flicking the light on in the bathroom, the girl from the mirror greeted me again. Averting my eyes, I picked up a comb, sorting through the golden mass on my head. Grabbing a white ponytail holder, I gathered my hair up to the top of my head, tying it in place in its two-bun style. Taking one last look in the mirror, I noticed the girl was beginning to look closer to normal by the minute.
I smelt the fresh scent of morning brewed coffee hanging in the air. Slowly making my way down the wood stairs, I prepared for another day of lies and truth. In my mind, thoughts echoed, hitting certain parts and pouncing on my mind like wild fire. Maybe things will be different today. I might come down the stairs, seeing a family I never saw before, encasing me in warm hugs, surrounding me with love. Maybe even giving me the gift of a new life, letting me start over, and not be afraid to trust anyone. I knew I was kidding myself, setting up unreal goals, only cramping myself in a small box of being let down again. I can dream can't I?
Rounding the corner to our kitchen, I took in my surroundings. A small oak table adorned with a yellow tablecloth sat in the center. Counters of canary blue tiles lined three walls, stopping where a bookshel sat, holding a small white T.V. Plants of bright green hung from the far corner to my left, vines placed gracefully along the top of the oak cupboards created an exotic aura. White appliances decorated the room, as bright sunshine poured over the silver utencils hanging on the wall. A woman with grey-lilac hair in a loose bun stood infront of the oven, eggs sizling from the black pan. Wearing a blue dress with a floral apron tied around her thin waist, she hummed a song over the faint sounds of a newscaster in the background. Funny how someone so innocent could act so strong, knowing nothing of my many nights of pain.
Then I saw him. Sitting at the table, diligently smoking his cigarette and reading the morning paper. I wondered if he even remembered last night, noticing the smell of strong alchohol on his breath then. My mother, looking over her shoulder, gave me a weak smile, tiredness streaming from her eyes. My father folded the paper, placing his cigarette in the glass ashtray. He looked up, and blue crashed against brown. Feeling small, I slinked into my chair, across the square table from him. Averting my eyes to the world outside, I peered through the opening in the yellow curtains. The sun was already high in the sky; light puffy clouds were placed evenly throughout the sky. Being fall, orange, red and gold leaves hung onto the trees, some being sacrificed to the warm autumn wind outside.
Noticing a small china plate with blue designs sitting infront of me, I looked over the contents sitting silently, getting cold. Scrambled eggs with cheese, two pieces of toast, about four pieces of bacon and hashbrowns crisped a nice golden. I smiled just smelling the fragrance of my morning meal, my mouth wattering, wishing to taste the warm food. Silently picking up my silver fork, I scooped up a small helping of eggs, blowing on it gently to let it cool down. Feling my fathers stare on me, I felt uncomfortable, but told myself I wouldn't let him ruin this. Placing the contents in my mouth, I chewed slowly, savouring the fresh taste. If there was one thing I was good at, it was eating, ask anyone who knows me.
"This is really great, mom!" I smiled at her, placing more of the breakfast on my fork. She turned to me, folding her hands infront. Her blue, almost amethyst eyes glittered, saying 'happy' but radiating something different. "I'd say this is your best yet! Well, if that's possible." I winked at her, causing her face to turn to a small smile, giggles echoing through the room. I loved it when she smiled. Lighting up the whole room, as my own used to do, she made me want to cry. She didn't deserve this. The dealing my father gave to her. I knew she knew about everything. You could see it in her eyes. How tired she was every morning, never looking at my father directly.
"Yes, it is quite exquisite. Wonderful job, Ikuko." He spoke. The sound sent chills up my spine. My mother winced at the tone of his voice, hanging her head slightly. A bitter sweetness dripping with sarcasm. This meant he was satisfied, but wanted more. I hated the bastard. Causing such a pure angel such ache. But, he was my father, so I respected him, as I should. He placed his napkin on the side of his dish, having finished the meal. Standing up, pushing the chair backwards he rounded the table, placing a hand on my shoulder as he went by. "Have a nice day, Serena." I jerked from his grasp, memories flooding in. Not today. Today was going to be my day. Smiling evily, he looked towards my mother, crossing his arms over his chest. "Ikuko, would you step into the living room for a minute, please? I need to talk to you about something." Looking up from her work, she walked over to him and past, her shoes softly padding the ground.
Knowing he was gone, I grabbed the remote control, changing the station to the music channel. A new song by my favourite artist rang through the kitchen. Singing along quiety, I picked up my dishes and rinsed them in the sink. Grabbing a glass from the cupboard, I poured myself a cold glass of milk, hoping to wake myself. I went over my life, trying to figure out where everything went wrong, like I do everyday. Pulling out my chair again, I sat down, my chin resting in one hand as I sipped the cold liquid silently. Deep in thought, I thought about school. Being one of the 'rich' schools, it was big and beautiful. Sienna brick walls with silver attatchments stood out in my small town. Inside, it was spotless and well kept. Large tiled rooms with long hallways, stairs to all three levels creating a maze. Secret pathways seemed to be discovered everyday. Yes, I was rich. Well, my family was anyways. My mother was a stay at home woman, cleaning and cooking like my dad liked it. Dad owned a big business, Stairwell Industries. A company that took calls from clueless persons, needing help to figure out internet and computer problems. Not that I held a grudge against these people, but calling about which button to press, 'continue' or 'delete'. It had to get annoying once in a while. Hearing a faint *whack* from somewhere in my house, I figured my father had left, slamming the door behind him. Good riddens, I though to myself, afraid it wasn't the door, and he may still be here.
My mother entered, her cheeks red. Instantly going to the sink, she filled it up with water, spraying soap into the mixture. Instantly, bubbles formed, as she placed all the moring dinnerware into the sink. I watched as she quietly went about her work, her mind obviously somewhere else in time.
"So, mom, what do you have planned for today? You're not just going to stay home all day, are you?" Turning in my chair to face her, she continued to wash, the dishes clanking being muffled by the water. "I mean, look outside! It's so wonderful out, I think you should go do something today. Besides, you deserve it after cooking such a wonderful meal." She laughed and came to pick up my empty glass. Placing a hand on my cheek, I felt the lines of old age and hard work on her. She smiled down at me, then turned back to the sink.
"Well, your father suggested I get some groceries today, only the necessities of course. Then, I was thinking of maybe going down to the library to check out some new books." Drying the dishes with a pink towel, she placed them in the correct cupboards with care. She treated things with such love. I hoped I would be just like my mother when I grew up. I smiled realizing her plans for the day. She was always such a bookworm, filled with intellegent information. Me, I was the opposite. Interested in things like music and magazines, my grades showed it.
"Well, that's good! Maybe after school today we can go window shopping!" I yelled from the living room, picking up my binder from it's home on the couch. Our living room was mainly dark red, cream, and gold. It was my favourite room. It seemed like such a comfortable room. Cream coloured chairs and a sofa with a matching coffee table lined the walls and center of the room. The table had gold markings on it, creating a cracked finish, which looked delicate yet sophisticated. Dark red curtains hung from the two large windows; one pulled to the side to let in some sun. The wood floors, walls and ceiling were light oak, and a T.V. stand of cream painted wood was on the far wall. Plants decorated this room as well; a small tree beside the T.V. stand, while plants in small red pots hung from the tall ceilings.
"I don't think so dear. Your father is coming home early, which means I have to get supper cooking before he gets here. Sorry, honey. Maybe tomorrow, okay?" Her melodical voice rang through the room as she peered her head around the corner, a dishtowel hanging from her shoulder. Dissappointed but still content, I smiled at her again. Realizing the time, I quickly picked up my book and ran down the stairs to the door. I put on my pink sandals and yelled a 'goodbye' to my mom. As I opened our door to the outside, I breathed in the fresh morning air. Free for another day.
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Looking up to the tall building infront of me, I tried not to scream. I knew it wasn't as bad as it looked, but such chaos rang through the interior. Well, I guess that's what you get for going to a rich highschool, and being in grade ten, no less. Walking confidently, my head high, I gathered my wits and walked to the front doors. Reaching towards the handles, I realized something wasn't right when I hit the ground. Propping myself up onto my elbows, I looked at my now open and scattered books, papers lying everywhere, blowing away. No point in trying to catch them now. I looked up to the door, and saw a form. A person, to be exact.Jet black hair, a bit longer than I liked, and startling blue eyes stared down at me. Sheepishly grinning, he looked at me, rubbing the back of his neck, obviosuly confused. The fact he was a male just registering in my mind, I began to get up.
"Here, let me help you." A hand reached down, offering its assictance. Noticing someone was actually attached to this hand, I figured it was the boy. Dressed in dark jeans, a black t-shirt and an oatmeal color sweater, I decided he couldn't do much harm. I grasped the hand firmly and used its strenth to prop myself up to the certain level.
"I'm Darien by the way. I just moved here yesterday." Bending down to pick up my books, I took in the information. Not being a rude person, I introduced myself as well.
"I'm Serena. I've gone here all my life. Not the greatest place but, you gotta have some kind of education, right?" Stupid, stupid, stupid. Why do I make such lame jokes? Punching myself inside, I reached out to take my books. Thinking I could maybe slip away and be invisible, I prepared to run a marathon against time itself. Suddenly I heard laughter. Looking up, Darien was laughing. And it wasn't fake either! I think he was actually laughing at my joke.what was wrong with this kid?
"Yeah, I think I'd drop out if my parents weren't so set on me being some rich doctor." Still in shock from his laughing, I stared at him. Why's he so open with me? Somethig was seriosuly wrong with him. Concern registering on his face, I tried to straighten under his intent stare.
"Um.is there something wrong?" I asked, hoping I didn't have egg stuck to the side of my mouth or something. He took a step closer, looking at my face. Oh no. The worst had actualy come true.
"Did you hit your eye or something when you fell?" Just remembernig I forgot makeup when I left my 'home', I kicked myself. How could I be so stupid? Maybe Lita has some.
"No, I got in a fight with my brother yesterday. We fight pretty rough." I laughed nervously, hoping he believed my lies. Thankfully he did. Maybe I could convince him to see the school counselor.
"Well, I'd hate to get in a fight with you then. I can imagine the shape your brothers in!" Laughing again, I giggled. Pondering what I should call my 'brother', I began to walk to the doors again. With Darien right behind me, we walked in together. People obviosuly thinking what they like, whispers were heard from various places. Some people were so sceptical.
"So, do you know where everything is? I mean, I could help you if you want. I've gone here forever, so I think I know where everything is. Well, that's what everyone thinks, but really, there are doors we never even knew of that we find everyday." I laughed as I walked down my hallway towards my locker. Getting stares from teachers, I tried to shrug it off. Probably just wondering who the new boy was. I stopped infront of a mint green locker with the number 427 written on the silver handle. Darien turned to allow me privacy while entering my combination. '24.16.38' I stated inside my head. Tugging on the silver lock, I popped it open and placed the lock on the small shelf inside. I plopped my binder inside, trying to figure out what to do about my lost notes and possibly assignments, when I noticed Darien shifting uncomfortably. People looked him over as they passed, realizing a new boy had entered our school. I replaced the lock again and turned to him.
"So, where's your schedule? Do you have a locker yet?" We stood there for a second. He hesitated and looked at me. Sighing, I took his hand and headed towards the front office. You think this stupid school would atleast give him information before letting him go in this heard of drones. As we weaved ourselves through the multiplying parasites called students, we eventually reached the front office door. Pushing open the glass door, the calls of the wild were left behind as it shut behind us.
An old woman with grey hair and gold rimmed glasses looked up from the desk. Stepping forward, I began to explain our 'reason for intruding'.
"Goodmorning!" I cooed, putting on a sweet smile. "I was wondering if you could help my friend here. You see, he just transferred here from.uh." I looked back at him, not remembering if he actually said where he was from.
"Mississippi." He spoke mater-of-factly. I smiled and turned back to the order at hand.
"Mississippi. It seems he hasn't received a locker number or schedule yet. I was wondering if you could possibly help us?" Making my innocent face, the lady smiled, turning to her computer screen. She clicked and typed as I studdied a poster hanging on the wall.
"Name?" She looked up at as over the top of her glasses. Donovan stepped forward as he realized I didn't know his last name.
"Darien Sheilds." He said, peering to the computer. So, Sheilds was his last name. Not knowing if it sounded protective or betraying, I turned back to the poster. It was too early to figure these things out.
Hearing the door open again, I looked back as three girls stepped in. One had short blue hair and blue eyes, the other chestnut hair with emerald green eyes, and the last long black hair with wide violet eyes. I walked over to them as they waved. Not feeling like talking to them right now, but knowing I had no choice, I put on my fake smile and said.
"Hey everyone! How are you today? I'm just helping Darien here get his schedule and stuff." I nodded back to the mysterious boy as I placed my hands in my back pockets. They all looked behind me, satisfaction registering on their faces. Even my friends had one track minds.Lita, the chestnut haired girl was the first to speak.
"That's cool. But what happenned to your eye? Did you two meet while boxing or something?" She leaned in closer. Why does everyone do that? It's not like its going to tip its hat and say hello, people!
"No, Lita, we ran into eachother this morning. Literally. And we started talking. He's new here, from Mississippi. I'm just helping him get settled." Seeing this as a reasonable explanation, I smiled approvingly. Raye flipped her long hair, obviously itching to say something. Us not always being the best of frineds, she had to find some way to lower my spirits. I'll bet she wouldn't if she knew what my life was actually all about.
"Yeah, he seems okay. More your type than mine, I'd say." Snarling her way, I couldn't believe she had the nerve to say these things. It's not like she knew Darien personally. Hearing footsteps behind me, I turned to see him standing uncomfortable. Pushing him forward, I introduced him to my group. Pointing to the short haired girl first, I began.
"This isAmy, that's Lita, and she'sRaye. Everyone, this is Darien Sheilds." He waved and smiled, the girls laughing shyly. Amy reached out her hand, a warm smile gracing her face. Too kind for her own good.
"It's nice to meet you Darien. I hope you're in some of my classes! Any friend of Serenas is a friend of ours." Taking her hand he politely shook it. Handing me his schedule and locker number, I looked them over.
"Wow! We have every class together except one. I have History in fifth and you have Physics. Raye's in that class though. She'll help you. Just try not to be around her when dealing with chemicals too much." I winked at her as she placed her hands on her hips, pouting and whimpering. I laughed just as the first bell rang.
"Your locker is on the second floor. So is Litas, so she'll help you. I'll see you in Math, okay!" I waved goodbye as I left the office towards my locker. Well, so much for freedom.