Then And Now

Chapter 24- "Who Kissed Who?"

Savannah-

It was Friday evening in Nathan's home. I finished eating my dinner in silence at the kitchen's bar, while Nathan enjoyed his meal in the living room. 

Cleaning my plate off, I just sat on the stool, my mind filled with my thoughts, as my stomach was now satisfied with my final meal of the day. My fork, which once served it's purpose of feeding me, now only submitted to be being a simple toy in my hand, as my index finger simply tapped it over and over again, while my thumb and middle finger held it snug.  

Why was I so preoccupied? Only one thing.

I like you... Nathan had said. 

That was a week ago. He said it, then said nothing more of it. 

What was I supposed to do with that information? And what was I supposed to think with that delivery? He said it so seriously, no smile, no amicable approach, just a bland declaration... almost mean.

So did he really like me? 

I rolled my eyes. Of course not. Not Nathan. Never Nathan.

And if he ever did? Would that change anything? 

I sighed again, no, it wouldn't change a thing. 

Knowing Nathan, I know exactly why he did what he did. It was his way of keeping me silent. He always knew how to shut me up. 

He always knew...

*Flashback*

Lunch was over, and I managed to make it to the administrator's office just in time without being detected by Nathan or his goons. 

Sighing and repositioning my bag on my shoulder, I signed in and waited to be called by the receptionist. 

Today was the day. 

My chest swelled with hope. 

Mrs. Sally, the receptionist would call my name. I'd walk up to the desk and she'd ask me why I was there. I'd answer that I needed to fill out a bullying complaint. She'd ask against who, and I'd reveal that Nathan has been torturing me since that dreadful basketball game. 

I'd be free. I smiled at the thought, and waited anxiously yet with glee. 

Then the office door opened, and in walked Bailey and Rodney. My smile disappeared quickly. 

Bailey noticed me first. She scoffed, then smiled, then she tapped Rodney on his arm and pointed her chin my way. 

I gulped uncomfortably, but I remained seated. They couldn't tease me here, not unless they wanted to get in trouble with the administrators. I was safe. Today would be the day where I once again became safe in this school. 

Bailey sighed, and I noticed she began to walk towards me, while Rodney pulled out his phone. He started to type something, and I assumed it was a message, because as soon as he was done, he tucked his phone away and walked out of the office without his girlfriend, who in that time, had sunk into the chair next to mine on my right. 

"For telling the school's basketball star that you had a crush on him, you became alienated by this school," Bailey began, her tone so friendly and sweet, I almost developed diabetes, "I wonder what would happen if you had him suspended."

Her words sent me into a panic. Her smile and nonchalant cadence and behavior urged me to stand and abandon my plan in that instant. 

I hurried out of the office as Bailey waved me goodbye, only to halt in the hallway when I noticed Nathan turn the corner. His eyes fell on me instantly, and in a panic, I turned and hurried the other way.