Four Page Letters (TeacherxStudent)

Chapter 16

Charlotte

This morning I woke up eighteen.
I woke up.. content.
I woke up.

There have been days in my life I wasnt sure if I would see day light. But today, I've peaked into adulthood. And it feels good. Laura hasnt been around ever since that night she took me with her to that place. Which I'm thankful for. I was able to get a debit card from the bank, so I have access to the money my Dad left. But I only use it when I need it. Finally getting out of bed, I walk over to my closet and searched for something nice to wear. I decided on a white strapped dress that flowed just above my knees and a pair of white vans. I grabbed a black leather jacket and slipped it on. It's November 3rd, so as fall starts to set in, the weathers getting a bit chillier.

I threw my hair up into a high ponytail as I heard my phone go off. I went over to the bed and grabbed it, seeing I had a text from Abby that she was pulling up. Ohh.. thats another thing thats new. Its been a little over two months since everything that happened with Rosalynn. Since I dropped her class, I make it my business to avoid any type of interaction with her. I go to my locker, yet never walk in her direction. I would walk around the whole school if it meant I didnt have to see her. Abby was in Rosalynn's class with me but we never really spoke to one another, only in passing. But a little over a month ago she came to me in the cafeteria and just said how she doesn't see me anymore. And it really just took off from there.

Shes been a really great friend. Shes is very kind, shes attentive. But honestly, I keep her at a distance. She doesn't come inside my home, although sometimes she picks me up for school and drops me off. And I greatly appreciate that. But I never invite her inside because im scared that the day I do Laura would be home. She doesnt know about the abuse. Well, I haven't admitted anything. She has seen an old bruise from my stomach one day when I was at her house and my shirt rode up. But hasnt asked about it, and for that im thankful. I mean its not rocket science, but Im thankful she didnt ask. She really is a sweet girl. I've never really had friends so its new territory for me. But its nice to have her around.

Shortly after I heard a horn blow. I looked through the blinds and saw Abbys' car parked on the driveway. I grabbed my phone and backpack and headed downstairs and out the door. Upon reaching the front seat, I was greeted with a back seat full of balloons and cupcakes sat on the seat. "Happy Birthday Char!!" She screamed as I picked up the cupcakes so I could sit down. She reached over and hugged me. "Thank you Abby. You didnt have to do all of this." I said smiling. She reached into the back seat and grabbed two boxes, placing them in my lap. "Abby..." She threw the car in reverse and pulled off down the street. "Just open it goof. Its nothing special really." I carefully removed the bow and opened the first box. Inside was a bottle of Chanel Chance perfume. "Wow.. this must have cost a fortune." I said as I stared at the pretty bottle. "Not really." She shrugged. "Its one of my favorite scents so I hope you like it also. Go on, open the next one." Sighing, I went for the next box. Opening it, it was a small pandora box and inside was a charm bracelet. I pulled it out and looked over each charm carefully. There was a moon, stars and also one that said "Best". I looked over at Abby, she smiled at me and held up her left wrist. Seemingly wearing a similar bracelet. She brought it closer to me, as I saw her charms were suns, and clouds and said the word "Friends".

I looked at her with glossy eyes. "Will you be my best friend Char? I think you're amazing and I know we've only kind of known each other a short while but I love being around you. You're literally the sweetest and I feel like I can talk to you about anything. And you make me laugh." She said smiling. I hadn't responded yet. I've never had a best friend, I don't even think I know how to be one. But if what I've been doing lately is best friend material then I must be doing a good job. I've never opened up to anyone. I have never let anyone get close to me. But Abby just seems.. different ya know? Genuine. "Earth to Char?" She said. "So will you?" I threw my arms around her, causing her to swerve a little. "Duh!" I said leaning back in my seat and putting the bracelet on. "We almost crashed goof!" She said laughing as we pulled into the schools parking lot.