Chapter 179
As the school day went by, it felt as though I was moving through a dream, disconnected from the world around me yet acutely aware of every moment.
In all the classes of today, no one dared to make a jab or poke fun at me, their gazes sliding past me as if I were invisible. Even the teachers seemed to speak as if I weren’t in the room, their words directed at the empty space where I sat.
It was a surreal experience, one that left me feeling both relieved and unsettled. On one hand, I was grateful for the reprieve from the constant scrutiny and judgment that had plagued me in the past. But on the other hand, the silence was deafening, a stark reminder of the isolation that had become my new reality. Find the newest release on.net
However, in the cafeteria, the matrons heaped more food onto my plate than usual, their gestures accompanied by smiles, and then furtive glances at the students who whispered conversations about me. It was clear that word of my encounter with Chyra had spread like wildfire, earning me a newfound respect and reverence among the school staff, at least those who hadn’t been pleased with the bullying incident.
“Hey Dora, Penny for your thoughts p>
I smiled when I noticed that Levina was standing right beside me. She was done seeing her father?
“You seemed to be lost in thoughts earlier…you didn’t even notice when I grabbed your juice can She laughed, when I glared at her, and then at the can in her hand, one of the free gifts from the cafeteria matrons.
She moved away, when I tried to grab the object away from her hand.
“C’mon, don’t be stingy, Dora… you should learn to share p>
I scoffed, and let her be, taking a last look at the faces of my mates in class, before leaving. They had just rung the dismissal bell.
I noticed that Raul was staring at me, again, for the umpteenth time. He looked away though, when he noted I was now looking at him. Whatever. At least Chyra, and the rest of Rachel’s minions weren’t in school today. Probably why the class was more quiet.
“Let’s go p>
“Dora,” Levina began, her voice tinged with uncertainty, grabbing my attention as we walked out of the hallways, into the school’s park.. “I was thinking… maybe I can join you at work today. You know, turn in an application to work at the store too. It’s better than staying at home idle p>
I hesitated, torn between the comfort of Levina’s friendship and the weight of the responsibilities that lay ahead. “I appreciate the offer, Levina,” I replied, forcing a smile. “But I have other plans for today. However you can turn in your application. We can work together tomorrow p>
Levina’s brow furrowed in confusion, her gaze searching mine for answers. “What do you mean?” She asked, her voice tinged with concern. “Why aren’t you working today p>
I took a deep breath, steeling myself for what I was about to say. “I’m going to see the Queen,” I confessed, my voice barely above a whisper. “And I’m waiting for my guardian to join me p>
Levina’s eyes widened in surprise, her mouth forming a silent ’O’ of understanding. “The Queen?” She repeated, her voice filled with awe and disbelief. “But why p>
I shook my head, knowing that I couldn’t reveal the full extent of my plans to Levina. “It’s complicated,” I replied, my voice tinged with regret. “But I have to do this, Levina. I don’t really have a choice. It was an order. Hopefully, it will be for a good cause p>
I wasn’t lying to my friend. I was just keeping things from her. They are different things right?
Levina nodded though, her expression filled with understanding and support. “I understand,” She said, her voice soft with sympathy. “Just promise me one thing, Dora. Promise me that you’ll be careful. The Queen…well, I don’t trust her p>
The last clause was said in a conspiratorial whisper. I didn’t negate or agree with the statement. There was no need for that. Involving Levina into the case, would be involving her into trouble. I didn’t want that.
I smiled rather, grateful for her unwavering support. “I promise,” I replied, my voice filled with determination. “I will stay cautious around the Queen p>
It’s not like I have a choice.
I’ve been waiting for Peter for the past ten minutes. Not much time, but in the text he had forwarded to me, he had promised to be here right on time.
I wasn’t really annoyed by the lapse in the promises, only that I have been a thing of spectacle to every Jack and Jane that stepped out of the hallway, including the teachers. Like hadn’t they had their fill of looks in the morning?
I sighed in relief, immediately Peter appeared in my line of sight.
He strode confidently toward me, his presence instantly calming my nerves which had started fraying at the prospect of seeing the Queen, and the chaos that might ensue after. I couldn’t help but smile as he approached, his familiar face a welcome sight amidst the onslaught of students. Levina had long gone home.
“Dora!” He said, his voice warm and comforting after I greeted him. “You look tired. That stressed out?
I shrugged my shoulders, having no desire to talk, as we began the walk that would take us to the palace.
“How was school?” Peter asked, not giving up still, his tone filled with genuine interest. “And your classes p>
There was no choice but to launch into a flurry of explanations, even though I wasn’t really eager to share the details of my boring day with anyone.
However, as I spoke, Peter listened attentively, nodding along and offering words of encouragement when needed. His genuine interest in my well-being warmed my heart, reminding me of the bond I never had with my old family, apart from my mother.
When I was done, Peter reached out to gently squeeze my hand, his touch sending a reassuring wave of comfort through me. “Don’t worry, Maya. Everything will be fine. You’ll see p>
Obviously, he knew that I was just rattling to fill up the silence, not that I really wanted to talk. He knew I was tired, and then nervous.