"I think we need to talk about the cuts I just saw on your wrist."

Abby almost fell over in shock. How the hell did her teacher know about it? Her automatic reaction was that Susan or Carter had told her, but the more she thought about the more silly it sounded. They were worried of course, but they wouldn't have done that.

"I don't know what you're talking about."

"Abby." Miss Walker said calmly, knowing she was lying to her. "I just saw them before. After I checked your work, you fiddled with your hair and I saw them."

Well at least now she knew why the teacher was giving her funny looks all lesson.

"Honestly, it's nothing." Abby mumbled.

"Can I see them then?"

Abby looked at her teacher, and could see that she just wanted to help her. Her eyes were full of compassion, and her comforting smile was genuine. Abby sighed a little, then rolled up her sleeve, and put her wrist out in front of Miss Walker. She gently took Abby's wrist, inspecting the sore, red scratches. She rubbed her finger over them, and then moved her glance back to Abby.

"Do you know why you do it?"

Abby shook her head, this time staring directly at her teacher. She wasn't sure why, but she felt comfortable around her. She wanted to tell her everything, but wasn't sure if she really should.

"Is there something happening at home? Or are you stressed?" she asked, throwing around some ideas. She was naturally concerned about any of her students, but there was something about Abby that told her she need help…she just couldn't ask for it.

"No, I don't think so. It started as a little thing you know. Every now and again. It's just lately; it's been getting a little out of hand. Now my friends know about it, and they're totally freaking out."

"Is it freaking you out?"

Abby paused, thinking over the question.

"Yeah. It is a little bit." She answered truthfully.

"Do you feel better now that I know? Like something's been lifted off your shoulders?"

"Umm. I'm not sure. I guess"

"Ok. Well you can always come and talk to me about anything. I'll gladly make time for you." Miss Walker said reassuringly.

"Thanks."

Miss Walker knew she had to tell Abby something else, but she wasn't sure how exactly she would take it.

"Now Abby, anything you tell me is strictly between us. I won't tell your parents or anything like that."

"Good" she replied bluntly.

"You don't get along?'

"You could say that" she answered, looking away again.

"Well that's ok. Most people don't." Miss Walker said smiling. Abby smiled back, and Miss Walker could tell that she wanted to leave.

"I am however, legally obliged to talk to the counselor about this."

"Please don't Miss. You don't have to do you?" Abby asked, her voice picking up speed.

"I'm afraid I do. You can make the decision whether or not to talk to her, but I want you to know that I have to tell her. I have to talk to her about what you're doing."

"Fine. Whatever." Abby said, heading for the door.

"Remember what I said Abby. Whenever you need to talk…" Miss Walker called to her back.

Abby spun around, her hand on the door.

"I know. Thanks a lot Miss."

She opened the door and stepped outside, breathing deeply. Miss Walker was right. She really did feel like something had been lifted off her shoulders. It was the first time she had felt slightly happy in ages. She did however; feel a little edgy and anxious after that conversation. She headed outside, deciding to go for a smoke to calm her nerves.