~Gracie
It was October fourth, and so today was my first day of school. I pulled on some jeans, Converse, and a black v neck with my grey zip up hoodie. Usually a fashion icon would make a statement dressing just a bit more fashionable. But today was my first day back in school, so I wasn't entirely worried about it at the moment.
"You sure you want to do this?" Thalia raises her eyebrows at me; this was literally the hundredth time I've been asked this question. She wore a black robe and her skull sweatpants.
I nod taking a drink of coffee. "Yes, I know it sucks getting up, but it's something I know I have to do." I set my coffee cup down and peered at her.
"Which brings up the question, why are you up so early?"
She shrugs yawning. "I guess I just wanted to see you off."
I give her a soft smile. "Thanks Thalia," I shoulder my bag and hug her.
"No problem, good luck," She pulls back and holds my hands tightly. "Please, please be safe."
"He won't find me," I mutter lowly making her focus on me.
She nods slowly. "Okay, okay, but still."
I nod again letting go of her hands. "Don't worry, I will." I open the door and hop in my car to my first day of school.
*****
The halls were congested and slightly annoying. The buzz of the hallway was waking me up more than the buzz of caffeine. I really wasn't much of a morning person.
"Let me pair you up with a student who has no issue with the school showing you around. She's been here a week and a half and knows everything!" Ms. Simions, the guidance counselor, gushed pushing back a strand of grey hair behind her ear.
"That's...honestly not necessary." I tighten my hold on my book bag strap.
She looks slightly taken aback before adjusting her glasses correctly sliding them back up her nose into their proper position. "Oh, but Ms. Matthews we always do this kind of thing with all Ashmont new students. We find it's a great program for new kids to find good friends here."
I forced a polite smile. "I'll do fine, really." I wasn't exactly interested on being set up on a blind-friend-date with some random girl. It felt like the world was trying to replace Kris. No one could replace Kris.
Ms. Simions gave me a sad smile. "Try telling that to her then dear. She's standing right outside."
I fought back the most tremendous urge to groan and stomp my foot in resentment like a child; I flashed her a small yet strained smile. "Okay, I'll give it a chance then."
The guidance counselor clapped her hands joyfully. "Oh good, good, good! I'm happy you're willing to try!" Guilt tripper.
I turn on my heel away from her clutching my scheduled to my chest. When I opened the door a girl in a black skirt, sleeveless sheer teal blouse, and black flats stood there waiting patiently. She had long dark blonde hair that was curled looking almost like golden spirals. Her eyes seemed hazel looking more of a light brown at the moment framed with long dark lashes.
She smiled brightly. "Hey, my name is Erin," Her smile was bright, but at least her voice and demeanor was calm.
"Hi," I shift awkwardly in front of her. "My name is Gracie."
She nods. "Ms. Simions is a weirdo sometimes, but she's actually pretty genuine once you get to know her."
"Right, you were new as well, huh?"
