Usual disclaimer applies.

March, 2012

~24~

I get called to the office partway through fifth period.

Walking through the empty hallways, I think back to when Alice and I would coordinate bathroom breaks to be at the same time so that we would have this time, this peace and quiet. We would do laps around the school, or on the grounds, and talk about nothing and everything.

It was how I got to know her.

"Bella, what would it be like if we were sisters?"

"Alice, we practically are. I'm pretty sure my Dad loves you more than me, and I'm at your house most of the time anyway."

"But really sisters, you know? Like be able to have Christmas together, or spend our summer vacations off in some exotic land..." She lets out a mournful sigh, but brightens at her next thought. "Well, with the way you and Edward are going, maybe we can be someday!"

I sigh too. I won't admit to her that I sometimes have that thought too, well, more than sometimes…

I shake off the memories as I approach the office door.

Once inside, I am surprised to see Jasper sitting across from Mr. Brady, our principal.

I take the seat next to Jasper, shooting him a questioning look. He quickly looks down at his hands, which are clasped in his lap.

Not good.

Mr. Brady gives me a concerned look. "Bella, I was wondering if you are going to be pressing charges against Jessica Stanley and Maria Soparlo. Jasper here is willing to be a witness, so we can go over with him what happened. But you are also going to need at least a note from a doctor to prove injury. You did go to the doctor yesterday, correct?"

I am momentarily surprised by the topic of this conversation. I had assumed that this instance of bullying would be swept under the rug like the others.

I shake my head to answer Mr. Brady's question. "I didn't know I was supposed to Sir."

Jasper suddenly sits up straight. "What? Bella, you cracked your head. I saw you fall to the effing floor! You must have had a concussion, those fucking bitches…"

"Jasper!" My. Brady chides, giving Jasper an admonishing look. He turns towards me. "Well, Bella. I doubt a doctor would be much good now unless you have a fracture or something."

"It doesn't matter. I don't want to press charges."

Jasper tenses, ready to shout again.

Mr. Brady cuts him off. "Well, that's your decision, you are eighteen after all. But I want you to know the two girls will be facing a school suspension. I'm going to have to discuss with the board how long. In the meantime, make sure you see a doctor if your head is still hurting, or if you're experiencing any other symptoms of a concussion."

I agree and thank Mr. Brady, ready to leave the cramped office. I stand up, and Jasper follows my lead.

Once back in the hallway, Jasper and I stand awkwardly.

I want to thank him for being nice, for helping me, but I'm also still hurt and angry over his behaviour this year.

It's conflicting.

I shake my head, and put aside my pride. I seek out Jasper's eyes and quietly say thanks.

He gives me a surprised smile, his eyes lighting up.

"You're welcome Bella" He replies softly.