The gist is out

Amelia Forbes

The first thing Adrian did when he saw me at school today was to envelope me in a tight bear hug. I didn't know how to react at first but as seconds passed and I realized how much I actually needed the hug, I melted into his embrace.

As he reached up to pat my head he whispered, "I'm sorry. I'm so so sorry, Mel."

I gave him a small smile and nodded. I knew he was apologizing for everything that had happened with Jason. And I was. . . fine with it. He'd proved to be a good person and a good friend. And that was enough for me.

We both avoided the conversation that was lurking in the air and instead talked about our upcoming exams and study sessions we needed to have.

As we walked through the hallway together, I could hear the sneering and muttering of "slut" every now and then. Gripping my backpack tighter, I tried to ignore all of it and instead focused on my conversation with Adrian.