what happen today,” Niki says.
“I’m just taking a few precautions for tomorrow’s uncertainties, a small amount of body armor if you will,” says Gabe.
“Body armor, really? Okay, look, this is absurd. I know you were worried earlier about getting dismantled, but if you walk around school in this ridiculous outfit, it’s almost a guarantee you’ll get your ass kicked,” I say.
“Easy for you to stand there and lecture me on the rules of engagement. I don’t have the luxury to defend myself with the skills you possess. I have to be a little more creative,” Gabe says.
Niki sits quietly on the bed and reaches out to take Gabe’s hand. “I greatly understand and value your position about turning the other cheek, but there will come a time when you will need you sister the most to help you. Your intentions for seeing the good in people is valued by your heart, not by a law, and even if you wanted to change someone’s heart, you can’t. That is the choice they will have to make. That’s in God’s hands, not yours. Instead of striving to follow the laws for heavenly gain, try following Him instead. Maybe you two were called to help each other. Who knows?” Niki says compassionately.
The way Gabe motionlessly stands, I can tell his heart rate has receded. Whether it was what Niki said, or just the presence of an older, wiser sister consoling her little brother, it’s enough to trigger calmness in Gabe. As we leave the room, I look back and see Gabe sitting on the bed with his eyes closed in tranquil peace. When he prays, burdens are lifted. I’m a true believer in prayer; in fact, I try to pray before unwanted circumstances happen. Sooner or later they will, it’s inevitable.
Morning comes and it’s a new day, and I’m much too anxious to get out the door instead of eating breakfast. Gabe and I walk to one of the side areas of the school just to avoid any unwanted presence of Derrick. Gabe looks a little nervous, but not nearly as edgy as he was yesterday, so I propose we stay here as long as needed before the bell rings.
It feels so peaceful sitting underneath one of the largest pecan trees on campus. The birds chirping beautiful songs brings back memories of being on my granddaddy’s farm, lying on the haystacks, looking up atthe clouds with no worries. Behind us, nestled between the tall bushes that nearly cover the school windows, emits the most glorious scent of honeysuckle. I can hear the faint buzzing of the bees transporting its nectar. Everything seems almost perfect as I close my eyes to the rays of the morning sun peeking through the braches.
As the light dims on my eyes, I feel a coldness wrap around me, as if the clouds have blocked the warmth of the rays. Unfortunately, the sun is being blocked by McKenzie Woods’s disproportionate head. Great, the perfect morning is being shadowed by Lucifer’s daughter. Is it me, or do all girls with attitude stand with their weight shifted forward on one leg and their hands resting on their hips?
“I heard your little stupid stunt yesterday nearly cost your brother’s life,” she says.
“The only stupidity I witnessed yesterday was someone taking a leap of faith into concrete,” I say.
“Look, bitch …” she says ruthlessly.
“Excuse me?” I say, standing to my feet. Gabe has clutched onto my arm.
“You’re nothing special here, so don’t try to pretend you can fit in. We don’t need your kind here. That’s right—everyone knows you live at one of the foster homes. You’re just another problem child that the government should have trashed along with all the other Watchers. I’m actually surprised you’re wearing something that’s not stitched from burlap.”
I’m just speechless, and Gabe is still clutching onto my arm and half restraining me, but I don’t move because I’m trying hard to change my attitude to be more like Gabe. This is apparently hard to do.
“Hi, sweetie,” says McKenzie as she winks at Gabe.
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