Sydney skipped school the next day. She blamed it on “bad sushi” and fell back asleep when her alarm beeped at her. She stayed in bed until lunch then couldn’t take it anymore. She jumped out of bed and padded downstairs in her slippers. “Elaine?” she called. A short plump Hispanic woman popped her head out from around the door. “Ah! Good morning Ms. Sydney. You would like some food, no?” Sydney smiled. After two years, Elaine was more like a second mother. “Yes please, can you make me an omelet? With red pepper,” Sydney added, rubbing the sleep from her eyes. Elaine nodded and started preparing Sydney’s food. Sydney walked over to the rectangular kitchen table and sank down onto a chair. Elaine walked over after a couple of minutes and handed Sydney her food. Sydney smiled a thank you, and took the food outside. She walked out onto the large granite deck and sat down on the ground. She picked at her food and ate most of it but abandoned it when Sugar whinnied. She half smiled to herself and raced down to the barn. She needed a break.

            Callie took a deep breath and pushed the doors open to the school. So far, so good. She thought to herself. She kept her head down as she walked towards her locker. People turned to whisper when they saw her. Oh no. Bad idea! She groaned. Why had she been so stupid? She shouldn’t have worn this! She didn’t want to stand out now! Why had she worn her gorgeous new limited edition Ralph Lauren turquoise polo today? And did it have to match her eyes to perfectly? Well, at least my jeans are normal. She thought as she glanced down at her denim encased legs. Except I NEVER wear skinny jeans! What’s wrong with me? And pumps? Jeez, I need my head checked. Callie thought and she slammed her locker shut. Carrying her new black juicy bag, she speed walked to homeroom. Guys turned to give her the once over and gave her a flirty smile. She returned what she hoped was flirty but kept walking. This isn’t so bad, she thought. The only bad people she would have to face would be – her thought ended immedietly as she saw Sydney’s clique walk towards her. Sydney’s not HERE!? Yes! I’m safe! Callie let out a breath of relief and walked confidently past the 3 girls, her strawberry blonde curls bouncing naturally. The three shot mean looks at Callie but she ignored them. She could do this, she could do this.