"Caroline, good morning!"I glance up to see Indie as she slides into the booth across from me. It's Wednesday morning, and her dark hair is pulled into a ponytail, today. Her cobalt blue eyes are bright, unlike mine.
"Tired?" She asks, observing my features.
Is it that obvious?
"The transition to a new school isn't easy, let me tell you." I explain, opening a carton of free milk that I got in the breakfast line.
"I'm sorry to hear that." Indie's eyes darken.
I take a sip. Not as sorry as I am, let me tell you.
"So," She props her head up on a fist and smiles, "How was cheer practice? Do you think you'll join the team? I've been dying to know all morning!"
I grimace, "I enjoyed myself."
I fit in pretty well with the others- with Meghan. And I've so missed having something to devote myself to. Yesterday finally felt like a glimmer of hope.
But I can't, not if my mom needs my help. Images of last night's discovery of bills covering the master bedroom flash in my memory.
"The thing is, I think I need to get a job." I reveal, "I'm not sure if balancing a job between cheer and school is possible."
Does she get what I mean?
Across from me, Indie chews her lip in thought. "It's weird how things happen," she thinks aloud, "But I can help, if you want."
Help me? I don't even try to hide my surprise. "Really? You'd do that?"
"Sure," she shrugs, " I've been working since freshman year. My single mom raised me, so I understand what you're facing."
"I've got a single mom, too!"
That sounded a little weirder than I meant it to. I bite my lip.
"What about a younger sibling?" Indie flashes a sly grin.
"Yeah...Ace."
"See," her face lights up, "we're practically the same person. I have a little sister."
I guess Indie does understand. Not to be a loser, but I'm not used to that. I lean across the table.
"How can you help?" My voice is low.
"I'm actually the assistant manager now," she begins; I hold in the sudden urge to make a joke about The office, " at a bookstore in town."
Bookstore? I perk up. That sounds fun!
" I can make sure you get hired and that you get off on days that the cheerleaders have plans. It's really laid back," she continues.
"That's really perfect." I exhale, my prayers have been answered. "I can't believe you're doing this for me. I'm really, really grateful."
I watch her face; she blushes a smile, "Don't mention it. I would want the same if I was in your place."
I wish everyone in the world was this kind. I nod appreciatively. Something about Indie feels good and safe.
I open my mouth to speak, but before I can, a figure approaches our booth from behind.
YOU ARE READING
His Gold ✓
Teen FictionCaroline Abbott is the shy, new girl. Bryce Brown is the school heartthrob. With 4-months left of senior year, Caroline feels as if fitting-in doesn't seem like much of an option. However, Bryce knows all about fitting-in. He's a perfect candida...