The Shooting

Chapter 010: My Edumacation

The phone alarm went off multiple times stirring Lorena in her sleep. She had forgotten what it was like having to wake up almost at five or six o'clock in the morning. Shutting off her alarm, she dragged herself out of bed, and went towards the bathroom. As she tended to her needs, she brushed her teeth and rinsed her face, beginning to look more presentable. Fixing the bed and dressing in a simple gray sweatshirt with black ripped jeans, she put on minimal makeup, and headed downstairs.

''Good morning boo.'' her mother greeted. She greeted her back, before heading to put on her shoes and collect her school bag. ''I would love to drop you off since it's your first day back.'' Lorena shook her head. ''It's okay ma, I know you have work. Tyler offered me a ride, so I hope that's okay.'' Her mother nodded. ''Yes, I don't want you walking anymore. You could get rides from Tyler or take the bus home.'' Nodding, the doorbell rang.

Grabbing a small breakfast bar and her school bag, she greeted Tyler at the front door. ''Don't worry, Mrs. Perez. I will make sure to bring her to school and back safely.''

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On the drive to the school, Tyler could see the nervousness etched all over Lorena's expression. Removing one hand from the steering wheel, he reached over and took one of her hands into his. ''Babe, I need you to take deep breaths and relax,'' he coached. ''You need not worry. I will be by your side and make sure you are safe. I promise you.'' He saw Lorena taking deep breaths and he lightly smiled seeing it helping her. ''That's my girl.'' He couldn't imagine what she was feeling or running through her mind. 'I hope the day goes well for her and no trouble stirs.'

Parking in the student parking lot, Tyler opened the door and took Lorena by the hand. Locking the car, they went to the entrance of the school. Suddenly getting pulled back, Lorena looked as if she was about to cry. ''Ty, I don't think I can do this.'' Students pass the two, some commenting or whispering; Lorena returning. Tyler engulfed her into a hug. ''Remember deep breaths. You will get through this and be okay.'' Lorena savored the hug a while longer, squeezing tight, before walking to the entrance with Tyler. Taking deep breaths, she stepped one-foot in. This would be such a day for her.

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Thankfully -to her wish- many students tended to their conversations and business. She was welcomed back to her classes; some students being able to speak with her and give their condolences to what happened to her. Some, who carried small get well gifts every day, gave her small bears and chocolate. It warmed her heart to see how some of her peers were kind enough to do this for her and wished her well. The day turned out to be much better than how she thought. She was given a bit of slack -to overwhelm her with work- and could see the guidance counselor if needed. Although it was a good day, there were moments where it was too much.

The first day back was scary. But the following two weeks went smoothly. She regained most of her confidence, began to study harder, and finally felt something of being normal again. The whole shooting affected her so and caused many new changes. Changes in her demeanor to certain things, change in attitude towards school, wanting to physically and mentally get strong. Especially with wanting to find her attacker. It was almost a whole month of silence.

But just because he didn't sign, doesn't mean he won't plan to.

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AUTHORS NOTE:

Nowadays, gossip comes and go within a week or two between teenagers. Has anybody else notice that, or is it just me? Share, comment, and vote!