Good Girls Have Secrets

Chapter 26

I've never been so busy in my life, on top of having a baby, my homework demands my attention. I can't afford to drop out of my classes, letting my tuition money go to waste. Wandering through campus two days after Caris' surgery felt strange, thankfully my little fighter grows stronger each day. She's doing better than expected.

The rough spots during the last couple of days started with my confession to Allie. Our friendship's over, but somehow, I feel better knowing I did the right thing. Her last words spewed at me through the phone, "This will be worse than you can imagine. I'll get you back for what you did to me."

"I'm truly sorry, Allie."

"Your words mean nothing. You've ruined everything, I'll never forgive you."

The words settle between us and after what seemed like minutes, I let her go. "I understand, goodbye." Hanging up the phone, I bawl over the loss of a good friend. Allie used to be my defender and biggest supporter, all that's changed now.

Hearing a voice behind me, I recognize Audrey running to catch up with me. Together we walk to Design, for a moment I feel like a normal college student. Enjoy this moment. I reminded myself, as I listened to Audrey chatter about Bible Study and classes.

Seeing Matt and Kyle joke around like usual, sitting in the front row, and thinking about ideas for my next project feels nice. It reminds me that life will go on. That I'll be okay.

After class, Professor Powell stops me, "Maddie, I think we need to talk about your unexpected news."

I nod, staring at the ground. "I apologize for my absence. The baby wasn't supposed to be born until after the semester finished." Taking a breath, "I promise to get my work caught up."

"I spoke to Michele Collins about your situation."

His words twist my stomach in knots. I never considered that he could take back his recommendation, given my situation. "Sir, I know I can do a wonderful job for Michele. It won't be easy, but I promise that I'll work harder than anyone to prove that I can do it."

"I see." Is all he says.

"My Aunt and Uncle plan to help me, and plenty of women work and raise children. I need this opportunity more than anyone to make a good life for my little girl." I'll get on my knees and beg.

"I admire your determination. I'll put in a good word with Michele, but ultimately it's her decision." He leans forward and pats me on the shoulder. "You have a raw talent that I've never seen. If the internship doesn't work out, something else will come up in the future."

Thanking Professor Powell, I practically run to the classroom doors, to keep from crying in front of him. I need that internship. Determined to talk Michele into letting me work with her, I'll call on my way back to the hospital, after class.

Meeting with each of my professors, before I know it the day was over, leaving me frustrated with my grades and the stack of overdue homework.

Thirty minutes later, pulling into the parking lot of Elegant Design, I keep repeating I can do this. I considered calling Michele but knew dismissing me in person would be harder. The entire drive I prepare my case, planning to appeal to her loyalty towards women in the workplace.

Her secretary calls to let Michele know I'm in the building. The secretary's tone and double meaning words make me question myself.

Coming out of the elevator, Michele greets me with a warm smile. Her eyes travel down to my stomach. "Good evening Maddie. I'm glad you're here. It seems we have a lot to talk about." She's being overly polite. I suspect she isn't happy that I'm here.