I'll be your mirror (wlw, teacherxstudent)

chapter 9

Alicia's pov:

I haven't had the chance to hang out with Maya since last week. She had a test today which she was preparing for very seriously. It's not even a major test but she was studying really hard for it. I texted her 'good luck' in the morning, even though she doesn't need it. She texted back with a thank you and a wink face.

Having my lunch, I look out the window and watch people walking their dogs, some on a walk, some couples holding hands as they stroll. Maya's words replay over and over in my head. You fall in love with the soul not just the body. It makes me think, have I ever truly loved anyone?

Sure, I've had a lot of hookups and flings. Even dated a couple women. But they never lasted. I never let them.

Sighing I go to Bella's room, who ate very little today. She's sat on her bed reading 'Charlotte's Web'. She closes the book when I knock on the door.

"Yes?"

"I'm going to a carnival tonight. My friend will be here in a couple minutes to hang out." She hums. "Do you want to join us later? It'll be fun."

"No."

"Bells-"

"Leave me with my friends." She opens the book again and I go out closing her door.

It stings that she'd rather spend time in a daycare than with her own sister. Still I comply, I don't want to upset her further.

I pick out a green short dress to wear for the day out I'm going to have. It's not that short that it'll show my cellulite. But enough that I'd look good.

Fiona singing 'Across the universe' from my vinyl record could be heard as I apply my red lipstick. I smile against it when I remember drunk Maya jumping around to Taylor Swift. She looked so happy. I shake my thoughts away and concentrate on my makeup.

Sounds of laughter, shades of joy are ringing through my opened ears.

I laugh hearing the lines that play resonating with my thoughts. Classic universe.

"Hurry. She'll go." Bella says tapping my door. She's ready with her bag and her shoes in her hands.

"Who's she?"

She remains silent and ties her shoe laces that mother must've taught her. I don't think much about the 'she'. Knowing her habit of making imaginary friends, she's probably talking about one of those.

After we're ready, we go down to the parking lot where Stephanie is waiting for me. She gives me an air kiss as we greet each other.

"Hi Bella. How are you?" She asks the little girl who isn't at all interested in talking.

"Good."

"That's nice. Is she coming with us?" She asks, now looking at me. She's not really good with kids.

"No." Bella replies before I can.

"We'll drop Bella to the daycare and then go hang out."

She nods and we go towards her car. She's a poised lady. With dirty blonde hair and blue eyes. She walks with confidence with her toned skinny legs and arms. She's a model. I sometimes wish I had a body like hers. She's always been attractive, even in middle school she was, when we first met.

"Don't be mad." She says opening the door.

I see Andrea sitting in the passenger seat. After seeing that face, I turn around and start walking back towards the elevator by taking Bella's hand. Who, to my shock, let's me.