Dark Rider

6

"What's up with you this morning, you are super quiet today, "Lindey said as we walked to my locker. I hadn't told her about "the dream". Honestly, I don't think I could even form the words if I wanted to.

"Nothing, I'm just tired. I didn't sleep that well last night," I offer as an excuse. Lindey raised her brows in response but I pretended not to notice. Luckily, she let it go. I grabbed my books and we started down the hall.

"Oh yeah, the twins told me last night the word is Jamie's pissed Alan was seen walking with you to class yesterday. Apparently, word got around fast and there were still a few people who had no idea they like officially broke up. So, I'm sure she's all salty now you basically helped confirm they are done. Watch your back at that practice today. You don't want me to come with you? "Lindey asked.

"No, I think I'll be okay Lindey. Thanks though, "I say.

"I swear to God; those bitches better behave themselves. Are you sure?" Lindey pressed. I shook my head.

"It'll be fine Linds. Don't worry about me, "I chuckle.

"Okay, but if shit goes left, call me, "Lindey said, completely unamused.

"Alright, I promise. Later, "I call out over my shoulder as we split up in the hall. I make it to first period a couple of minutes early. I slide into my desk and take out my English book, note pad and pen to prepare for class.

Since class had yet to start, I pull out my ear buds and my phone, deciding to entertain myself with Mukbang YouTube videos. Three of my classmates, Donna, Audrey, and Riley walk in, engrossed in conversation. My video is turned down just enough that I catch what they are saying.

"Yea I totally heard she hooked up with one of those hot twins at Deidre's party and now she is practically throwing herself at Alan, " Donna said. What? Is that what people are saying about me? I pretended not to hear them.

"Omg, I had no idea she was such a-", Audrey said as she was cut off by Riley.

"Shhh, she's like right there you guys," Riley whispered, nudging Audrey's arm and nodding in my direction. Shame and anger radiated through my body.

Anger, because it was a completely skewed version of the truth and shame because I knew people were still likely to believe it anyhow. That's how high school was. People always believed whatever was furthest from the truth. Donna shrugged her shoulders.

"Oops...I guess, "she giggled. Really bitch? I stifled the urge to blow up on them. I am sure she wanted me to hear her. She had a reputation for stirring the pot. It would just give them more to gossip about.

Donna knew exactly what she was doing. It was evident as she continued to smirk in my direction as she slid into her desk with Audrey and Riley taking their seats on either side of her.

I remained quiet even though inside I was boiling. Soon, the class filled up and Mr. Hudgens started where we left off the day before with prepositions.

The entire lecture was a blur as I could hardly focus. When the bell to dismiss rang, I was nearly the last student to leave. I was so deep in thought I completely missed it. I grabbed my things and made a beeline to my locker.

I grabbed my hoodie and slid it on, pulling the hood up over my head. The hood always made me feel like I was stepping into my own safe space. I decided I would be wearing it for the rest of the day.

I plopped down in my seat at lunch, hood still pulled over my head. I began to pick at my chicken fingers and fries. Lindey joined me a few minutes later. She sat down in her chair with her brow raised.