Orphans of the night

Chapter 25

The lucky one

With my ear pressed up against the wall I was able to hear everything they were saying clearly.

"She looks so well! Are you sure that's the same girl you signed papers for?" Maria praised "she's gained a good amount of weight" she continued. I felt a little offended and pinched at my thighs, maybe she was right. I had gained a little weight but that wasnt a nice thing to say "yes. The doctors said she's out of the danger zone now" Demi sounded like she was smiling. My jaw dropped at Demi's response. I thought she was going to tell her off.

"How has her mental wellbeing and behaviour been?" Maria asked. There was a pause as I anxiously waited to hear what Demi would say "I think she's okay. She doesn't seem too depressed or display many symptoms of anxiety. More trauma and ptsd I'd assume" Demi said really quietly. It was quiet again for a minute "how about her behaviour" I heard Demi sigh in response. Oh no, that can't be good.

"Shes mostly good, she can be so sweet but she can be snappy and difficult.. sometimes" Demi whispered. I felt ashamed hearing that, but also angry. How dare she tell this women that stuff about me. She's not the one taking care of me.

"And your aware schools starting back up soon?" Maria said cautiously "mhm" "have you mentioned that at all to her?" "No not yet. But I intend to, I think she's ready" Demi responded.

Omg school? I hadn't been to school for years. I stopped going for so many reasons. Having to focus on survival was the main reason, but I guess now there's no reason for me not to go.

"Okay well. Thank you for your participation" Maria said as I heard her stand up to leave. I quickly ran back to my room opening my door then closing it as quietly as I could. I jumped on my bed and opened my book to a random page to make it look like I'd been in here the whole time. It didn't take long for Demi to knock on my door.

"come in" I called out putting my book down "oh sorry. I didn't mean to disturb you while your reading" she apologised "oh, no that's okay" I responded. Demi gave me a questioning look before she continued talking "I gotta talk to you about some stuff" she said softly as she came and sat on the end of my bed "is she taking me away from you?" I quickly blurted out as panic set in "what? No no, of course not. I wouldn't let that happen" Demi reassured. I sighed of relief and let her continue.

"How would you feel about maybe going back to school in a few weeks when it starts?" Demi asked quietly. I didn't act shocked or surprised like she was probably expecting, I knew it was coming since I'd overheard their conversation. I sighed and sat up "I haven't been for a long time.. I'd be behind everyone" I said sadly "your such a smart girl. I'm sure you'll be just as smart as everyone else, but if your worried we can always get you a tutor to make up for lost time?" Demi suggested. Demi always praised me and made me feel smart and worthy, but I still didn't feel that way "um.. maybe.. I can't give you an answer right now" I answered shyly. Demi nodded and looked down at the floor uncomfortably "okay.. I understand that but it's something you need to consider" she said kindly "I know" I answered again.

"So.. what else did you guys talk about?" I asked nervously "oh.. nothing important. She was just checking in" Demi smiled. I looked down at my thighs again and put my hands on them, giving them a small squeeze "Demi?.... do you think I'm fat?" I said awkwardly. I looked up to Demi who was staring at me with her mouth open "what? No of course not" she replied surprised. I looked back down at myself "hunny, your perfect" she said kindly trying to meet my eyes but I just looked away "is there something going on that you want to tell me?" Demi asked quietly "no" I replied bluntly. We both just sat in silence for a few minutes. I felt like Demi wanted to say something but wasn't sure how.

"Ok.. well. If you want to talk about anythi-" "no thanks" I cut her off as I jumped off the bed and headed into the living room "what school would I go to?" I asked "I guess we'd have to look and see what's around" Demi said as she followed behind me. I took a seat at the table and rested my chin in my hands. Demi pulled out a chair taking a seat across from me "I understand you need time to think.. but would you like to go back to school?" she asked putting an emphasis on the 'like'. I sighed and looked up trying to keep my eyes from watering "Demi.. all I've wanted my whole life was to be normal..to live in a home with loving parents that take care of me.. I want to go to school and make friends..but I've lived this way for so long I feel like I dont know any different" I had so much I wanted to say.. but I was to scared to say more. Demi gave me a sympathic look and leaned towards me, she took a minute to think about what she was going to say "that's not your life anymore, you are loved and cared for. I would love for you to go to school and make new friends. I want nothing more then to see you excel and thrive" she smiled.

I got a warm feeling inside as she spoke. The thought of staying here with Demi and never having to go back to the streets.. getting to live my life in comfort and safety, instead of spending everyday fighting for survival and living on the streets. I looked at Demi and smiled brightly. As she smiled back at me I wondered how I'd gotten so lucky.I'd somehow found a home, it was every orphans dream.. I know all the kids back at the ally had given up hope.. I had too "okay, let's have a look at some schools"