208

JASMINE

I stood at the gate waiting for Ashley's arrival. I was sure that what I did the previous day had led to a bloody war in the palace.

All that was left was proof that they had fought. And as I expected, Ashley came to school in a taxi. She alighted and hurriedly extended some notes to the driver.

She rushed into the school building. Then she saw me and paused abruptly because she was already late. I took the opportunity to wave and smile at her.

“Hello, Ashley.”

She looked behind her as if checking if I was talking to someone else. Such stupidity!

“Hi,” she walked towards me.

“Thank you so much for the other day. I felt a lot better after you spoke to me.”

She managed a brief smile, “It's nothing. I hope things are better at home.”

I shook my head, “honestly, nothing has changed between those two. But I'm hoping for the best.”

“I'm sorry about that,” she said, a concerned look on her face.

“Thank you,” I sniffed, “I don't want to ruin my mood or yours with my sad story, please.