New Leaves

Chapter Ten - Caught in the Middle

Emily's POV

A few days later, I met with Professor Atiyah to discuss my progress on Professor Vasquez's book. "Good afternoon, Emily. Come in and make yourself comfortable," Professor Atiyah said. I shut the door and took a seat in front of Atiyah's desk. "So I read your latest chapters..."

"You didn't like them?" I asked.

"I was going to ask if you're doing okay. It seems like you've been under a lot of stress lately."

"Actually, I'm all right. I know when it's all written down like that, it seems like my life is terrible, but for the most part, things are pretty normal. I just don't write about going to class or looking at memes because that's no fun to read about. And as far as my social life goes, my friends and I may be going through a rough patch, but I know we'll work it out. We always do."

"Sounds like you've got a healthy perspective on this."

"Thanks for checking on me, though. Do you have any notes for my writing?"

"Just one."

"What is it?"

"The writing in these last few chapters seems cautious. There isn't much detail. I'm guessing it's because you're worried about James not being there to edit. Try to be brave. I promise, you have your own talent. Aside from that, this is coming along nicely. The bit about babysitting Vasquez's grandson was a fun read."

"Thank you. It was fun to write as well."

"Keep up the good work, and I'll see you in a couple of weeks."

"Thanks, Professor Atiyah. I'll see you at our next meeting!" I returned to the suite to find Abbie sprawled out on the couch, staring at her laptop. "Hey, Abbie!"

"Hey," Abbie said.

"Um, are you okay?"

"I'm fine. I'm just... frustrated, I guess. Kaitlyn hasn't been in stats class for a week and a half, so I texted her asking where she was. I got a text back saying that she slept through it because she was up late with her band. And then I started thinking about The Gutter Kittens and ended up making myself mad."

"Abbie, haven't you and Kaitlyn talked?"

"I mean, I've tried, but she doesn't get it. It's like we're talking about different people! Like, okay, maybe I was a little too sensitive about those so-called jokes, but Kaitlyn is acting like these girls can do no wrong. It's like she doesn't get that even if they didn't mean to be rude, they still were! I'm sorry. I shouldn't be badmouthing people. Especially not your best friend."

I reached over and gave Abbie a hug. "Abbie, you're my friend too." She leaned back and sighed. "Hey, what if we tried talking to Kaitlyn together? You know, since I'm close to both of you."

"You think that might help?"

"We'll never know until we try. Besides, if she's been missing class as much as you say, it really is time for a wake-up call."

"Totally. I'm really worried about her... Thanks for letting me vent. I've been a little starved for girl time lately."

"Same here. But, hey, I'm done with my classes for the day, and I don't have any plans, so we can girl talk all you want!"

Abbie glanced at the door. "Actually, I think I'm gonna walk downtown. Maybe head to the arcade. Just to get off campus for a few hours, clear my head. I'd love it if you came along, though."

"Like a friend date?"

"Yeah... Speaking of dating..."

"What is it?"