Far Away From Home

Part Six

Renia packed a bag filled with anything anyone would need on a camping trip or picnic, like they had told their parents.

Her parents, in particular, were worried, especially her mom. They spoke at length with her.

Don't go to the forest, or even if you should go, don't go deep.

Stay around common grounds.

Don't stray away from your friends.

If you hear anything, come straight home.

If anyone suggests that you should go exploring, don't go. Come straight home.

They treated her like a high schooler, but she's a grownup, and she can take care of herself.

No one knew about her power. It's not great, but if she had to use it to protect herself, she would use it.

She met Jackson and Steph quarreling about who would carry Steph's bag.

She rolled her eyes and wondered how she became Stephanie's friend. Her mind took her back to the past, and she just had to remember it. 

Everyone was surprised by Steph's change of character.

Why did she suddenly decide to stay with the poor twins, Caleb and Tony, after she became Jackson's number one girl?

Anyone would do anything to get into their circle.

She wasn't really close to Steph, but she was in her former clique. She doubts that Steph will remember her.

Later that day, Steph complimented her on her outfit, which she had loved back then, and after that, they automatically became friends.

Ever since then, Steph has never let anyone close to their group. It's more like: they can talk, laugh, and do anything, but no one will sit with them during lunch or whenever they are together.

Looking back, she wondered if Steph became friends with her on purpose.

“You are a man. You are supposed to carry your girlfriend's bag.” Steph screamed.

“And what about mine? Should I just drop it on the floor and carry yours?” Jackson shouted back at her.

“I didn't say that. You said it.” Steph screamed.

“Shut up! You said that I should carry yours. What about mine?” Jackson screamed back at her.

“I didn't say that you shouldn't carry yours. You should do the manly thing and carry your girlfriend's bag.” Steph screamed back.

Looking at them, Renia couldn't believe that they won the school's best couple contest during prom night. The school needs to look through the votes and see if Steph manipulated them. She wouldn't put it past Steph. She's a nice girl, but she would do anything to get what she wants.

“Who sneezed on Steph?” a booming voice spoke at her back.

Renia smiled and turned toward Caleb. She wouldn't put it past Caleb to tease or insult Steph whenever he had the chance.

The guy seemed to hate Steph in and out, which brings her to the question: why had they remained friends?

Why hasn't Jackson broken up with Steph, and why does Tony always feel the need to single out Steph whenever she's in the wrong?

They seemed to hate Steph, one way or another, and yet they remained friends. Their quartet seems oddly abnormal on the inside. 

“She wants Jack to carry her bag for her,” she replied.