Rules of a Rebel

Chapter 8: Rebels Don't Regret

Rule #20: Rebels Don't Apologize

Sorry is not in the dictionary.

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Two days later, my parents still haven't come to my room to ground me. In fact, not even Melody's mentioned the fact that I punched Archer Raine in the face. I'm beginning to believe in the impossible - that he never told anybody. I relay this information to my friends over text.

Irene: wow, impressive. this Archer is a cool guy.

Peyton: That's not the point.

Andrew: nvrmnd that was it a gud pnch?

Peyton: That's not the point either.

Irene: what's the point?

Peyton: I think I took it too far.

Andrew: ya, u usually do. rembr that time when u gave that guy a concussion at that protest b/c he sed that animal shelters r a waste of taxpayers money.

Peyton: Yeah, but he deserved it.

Irene: And Archer didn't?

I groan and flop down on my bed. Sure he was annoying and invading my personal space, but does that really give me a right to punch? And given the fact that he didn't even rat me out, it makes me feel even worse.

Peyton: Maybe I should I apologize.

Irene: wow

Andrew: WHAT????

Irene: our baby Peyton is growing up.

Andrew: YOU NEVER APOLOGIZE

Jake: don't do it man.

Andrew: DO NOT APOLOGIZE.

Peyton: I'm going to apologize.

I turn my phone off and close my eyes, placing my arm on my forehead. My heart sinks at the memory of Archer's stunned face when I punched him. It was wrong. He grabbed my wrist. It's nothing compared to the things people have done to me in the past.

It's my fault.

I formulate a plan in my head.

How to Apologize to Your Enemy:

1) Choose the right outfit. It has to be intimidating, but well-meaning. Suggestions include a nice white blouse and black jeans.

2) Ring the doorbell ONE TIME.

3) Greet the enemy politely, with small talk such as "How do you do?" or "That's a nice pocket square you have there." If the enemy seems hostile, maintain a defensive position, but do not attempt to flee.

4) Say the S-word.

5) Get the hell out of there before the enemy decides to take revenge.

Simple.

Still, I don't feel good about this. I can't remember the last time I ever apologized to somebody.

I scrunch up my nose at my reflection. Although I've hid my hair under a basketball hat and I'm wearing my usual black and white outfit, my appearance still seems ridiculous.

Stupid pink hair.

Stupid Melody.

With a shake of my head, I grab my boots and step outside.