Mirror Mirror on the Wall Whose the Killer After all?

Chater twelve

"Rachel, honey?" My mom asks.
"Yes?"
"Who's the messenger?"
"The messenger is----"

I shot up in bed with sweat plastering my face.
I need a shower....a cold shower.

I walk to the bathroom and shut the door.
Did that really just happen?
Thank goodness it's just a dream. Right?

When the water is just bearably cold, I step in.

When I'm out of the shower, I grab a towel to dry off and head towards my closet.
I grab the first thing I see and throw it on.

Ready to head downstairs, I open the door and step into the hallway.
I walk down the steps when I hear wheels screech over the road and I know it's the bus.

I run outside, backpack in hand, hoping the bus will stop.
When it doesn't, I slow my pace to a steady walk until I realize I need a way to get to school.

My mom is at work. I can't drive yet. The only thing I can do is walk......5 miles.
I might as well be late to school than not go at all.

I start walking at a pace that will get me to school in about 45 minutes.
I shift my backpack comfortably on my shoulder as cars continuously pass by.

Ten minutes into walking, I hear a horn honk. I turn my head and see Nick's truck slow down.
He finally stops and reaches over to open the passenger side door.
"Hop in." Nick says.
I walk around the car as I lift myself into the car and shut the door.
"Thanks." I say wants I'm buckled up.
"No problem."
"How have you been?" I ask.
"I've been alright. How about yourself?"
"Well considering that I missed the bus and almost had to walk 5 miles, I doing fine."
Nick chuckles. "Yes you almost had to walk 5 miles. But I saved you. Didn't I?"
"Yes you did." I smile.

I get comfortable in my seat as I listen the radio.
I have no idea what this song is but I kinda like it.
"So am I gonna have to pick you up everyday from now on?" Nick jokes.
"No just when I miss the bus." I laugh.
"Oh okay. So everyday then." Nick states.
"Maybe." I shrug.

"I didn't see you yesterday at school." I say.
"I had to help out my mom and she let me stay home."
"Lucky you."
"Not when you have to clean the gutters." Nick responds.
"True."

Before I know it, we are pulling into the school parking lot.
"Thanks again." I say as we find a parking spot.
"No problem. Did you want a ride this afternoon?" Nick asks.
"No that's okay. But thanks anyways."
"Your welcome. But at least let me walk you to your class. Deal?"
"Okay." I say.

I lead Nick towards the math wing.
"So where is your first period?" I question.
"Science, with Mr.Sanders."
"Oh I have him after lunch. He's nice but a little corky."
"More than a little. He's nuts." Nick says nicely.
I laugh lightly as I realize we've reached the reading classrooms.
"Well maybe I'll see you later." Nick says.
"Yea. Maybe." I say as I head towards my classroom.
"Bye Rachel."
"Bye Nick." I say as I take a step into the classroom and walk towards my desk.

Seconds later the bell rings, signaling the start of first period.

"Good morning everyone. Today we will be reading a letter from the principal." Mrs.Elliot says.

I hear a couple kids groan behind me.

"It is read to every first period class this morning and you are all to listen intently." Mrs.Elliot adds.

Mrs.Elliot clears her throat and begins.

Dear teachers and students,

A year and a half ago there was a murder of a student at this school. Many of you have forgotten this but there are many of you that have not. As some of you may know, Carly Morris's case is open once again. Please know that if needed, the guidance office is open for any teachers or students. A letter will be sent home with students under the age of 18. The letter will ask for parents permission to have a police officer talk with the individual. Please understand that you have your own rights and they will not be violated. Please know that we are administrating this proceeded for the safety of students and teachers as well as helping ensure closure. Thank you for your understanding.

Sincerely,
Principal Peters

"Thank you all for listening. I will now pass out letters to all students under the age of 18." Mrs.Elliot says.
As the letters are passed out, the room is silent.
When I get a letter, I place it in my backpack and sit still.

I can't talk to the police.
They will find things out that will open so many doors that so don't need to be opened.