GUM

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Fifteen ~ A New Girl in School

Maxine

This weekend wasn't so bad. I decided to return to being the "Old Me" but another version. Some bugs has been resolved. A "ME" that has been reborn from ashes and rose up again...stronger and wiser.

Dad was happy about my decision. He was glad to see me move on from the past. It's a small step to moving on but this is a huge progress. It's been years since I haven't felt this free. Free from sorrow. Free from guilt. And most especially, free from the past.

Today's Monday in the first week of August and I am now getting ready for school. When I was done, I stared in front of the mirror and reflected on how I changed. My orange hair is now back to being black. I am now wearing light makeup instead of the thick eyeliner I always line on my eyes. The black lipstick I used to wear was now replaced with a rose pink shade. Now I can see my decent face, a face that has no bruises. My uniform is now neatly worn. And the most wonderful thing I am wearing...is my smile.

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When I arrived at the classroom everyone stopped what they were doing and stared at me confusingly. I proceeded to my chair and stared blankly at the window waiting for the class to start. Two girls suddenly popped in front of me introducing themselves and giggling from time to time. They were inviting me for lunch later. They were starting an awkward situation when someone interrupted.

"Gates! Hey, looking good with your total make-over. I'm glad on your improvements. By the way here are your notes that I've borrowed last week." Hale interrupted.

The two girls were shocked with that they heard and not the whole class stared at me awkwardly. I can feel the awkward feeling of being watched from head to toe. I felt uneasy until two girls hugged me and sobbed lightly.

"Anayah! You're back! It really is you. I'm so glad, dear cousin!!!" Callie said while cupping my cheeks and continued hugging me. Allie never uttered a word since she busy wetting my uniform with her tears. I hugged the both of them and never felt a great warmth like this since mom died. It felt very good.

I caught a glimpse of Stefan smiling and it warmed my heart.