Saved By Steven (the first story)

3. The assembly

Two hours after the assembly was supposed to start, the teachers finally began to gather in the dining hall. The students, who had been waiting that entire time, stirred restlessly. Conversations died down when the staff entered — especially when they saw Lauren. 
"Why are they so late?" one student whispered.
"I heard something happened," said another.
"Probably just hungover from some teacher's New Year's party," someone snorted.
"I bet they were drinking all night."
"Do you think they're drunk now?"
"All I know," said a girl in a sharp voice, "is that I saw Lauren in town last night. Wasted. She left with some weird guy I've never seen before."
"No way."
"I'm telling you."

The gossip fell quiet the moment Lauren entered the room, leaning on Mick's arm for support. Her sunglasses were gone, but her face was pale, her steps slow and uncertain."You okay?" Mick whispered as he helped her toward the front.
"I feel sick to my stomach," she murmured, "but I'll manage."
"I know you will," he said gently. "You're a tough cookie."
Lauren smiled faintly. "Thanks, Mick. You're a good friend."

"Look at her," Thomas whispered to his girlfriend across the room.
"She doesn't look good," the girl replied.
"I hope it's nothing serious."
"She's probably just hungover," Mike muttered from behind them.
"Don't be an ass," said Sydney. "Maybe she's actually sick and still showed up for the assembly. That takes guts."

The school director took the stage, tapping the mic.
"Alright everyone, let's find a seat so we can finally begin."
A soft murmur swept through the room as students and staff settled. Lauren sat beside Mick, her posture stiff, as though she was holding herself together by sheer will.
"I apologize for the delay," the director continued. "Let's make this brief so we can move on to what really matters — celebrating the new year together."

The speeches began — the usual mixture of school pride, resolutions, and forced enthusiasm. Lauren barely registered any of it. Her eyes were heavy. Her skin prickled. Tom, seated a few rows back, kept glancing at her. Mick didn't move from her side.

Finally, after what felt like hours, the assembly ended and the New Year's party began in another wing of the building. The space had been decorated with garlands, balloons, and cheesy banners. Music played through cheap speakers, snacks and sparkling drinks lined the tables, and — perhaps unwisely — there was even wine and beer for staff and seniors.
"Ready to party?" Sarah grinned at Tom.
"I'm always ready," he said, though his eyes drifted back toward Lauren.
"Come on then, let's dance."

Meanwhile, Mick walked beside Lauren as they entered the party room.
"You want to sit down?" he asked.
"I'd love to," Lauren said, forcing a smile, "but I really need the bathroom first."
"Alright. Want me to help you get there?"
"No, I'll manage. But... could you bring me my bag?""Of course."
Ten minutes later, Mick returned and handed her the worn leather satchel."Here you go, honey."
"Thanks."
"You want me to stay nearby?"
"If you could..."
"Sure thing. I'll be just outside. Yell if you need anything."

Tom and Sarah were already on the dance floor, surrounded by a few teachers and older students swaying in awkward rhythm. Mick hovered at the edge of the crowd, sipping water and keeping an eye on the hallway Lauren had disappeared into.

Lauren went into the bathroom, locking the door behind her. She leaned against the sink, breathing slowly. Her reflection stared back at her — pale skin, bloodshot eyes, mascara smudged beneath one lid.
She didn't remember getting home.
She didn't remember his name.
But something about him still lingered — like smoke on her clothes. And just for a moment, as she reached into her bag to find a painkiller, something fluttered out.
A single black-and-silver feather.
She stared at it.
It hadn't been there before.