Chapter 11
Finals were soon here, and I didn't want to repeat the class. I needed to put in extra effort if I wanted to excel. I've been relaxed lately, and that's bad, so I did the one thing I needed to do: take my learning seriously. It's quite fortunate we were given a week off for revision. I could have the needed time to catch up. Luckily, Alicia agreed to be my study partner. Today was our last day since exams officially start tomorrow.
Currently, we were in the room learning biology when my mother barged into the room with milk and cookies for everyone. “Thanks, Mom. You didn't have to," I said with my eyes still glued to my book. “Take a break, Millie. Your brain cells need to relax, and do drink the milk before it gets too cold." “Yes, Mom, you are the best." Mom gave me a peck on the cheek and walked out of the room. “You do have a nice bond with your mother. I wish I could say the same about me. I'm kind of jealous of the love you guys share. Cherish these moments before it's too late," Alicia spoke with a sad smile.
“I'm not trying to intrude in your family affairs, but what happened to your mother? You rarely mention her. It's always your dad and stepmother. You can stop if you don't want to," I stared at Alicia, but she shook her head. “It's a long story, and talking about it feels like reopening my wounds, but my mother died in a car accident when I was twelve. A year later, my father got married to my mother's best friend. Awkward, right?" She asked, and I nodded.
“She treats me like her daughter, but I don't like her. It feels like she has taken my mother's place in my father's heart, and I have a two-year-old half-brother. He's also cute," she said with a smile. “Well, I feel you should give her a chance. Some things are literally beyond our control, Alicia, but I'm sorry for asking in the first place."
“Let's not spoil the mood, Millie. Let's finish the milk before your mother scolds us." We burst into laughter and enjoyed our snacks. It was soon evening, and Alicia's father came to pick her up. I was quite tense for tomorrow, but I couldn't wait to be in the second year.
There is always a saying that some days can be your worst nightmare. Exam day was finally here, and I was super excited and prepared for the exams. The first day was perfect, and Alicia and I did some revision before we headed home. Soon it was Friday, and today was the day we write our last paper, which was my favorite: Biology. There was no complaint whatsoever from our class, which was a good start.
I was quite surprised that Cody and Isabella were composed throughout the exam time. Isabella told me our academic tutor was looking for me in their office. So after the exams, I dashed to the office, but it was surprising no teacher was around. I didn't know whether it was one of her pranks. I heard some footsteps approaching me and realized it was Isabella and our academic tutor, with a few teachers eyeing me as if I had done something wrong.
“What are you doing in the office all alone?" Miss Daniella asked, and I couldn't bring myself to explain. What was she driving at? “When Isabella told me that she has been seeing you stealing the question papers to learn with Alicia, I doubted her. I didn't know you could do this. No wonder it's always the quiet ones who are dangerous," she said with much hate. Tears stung my eyes, and I could see Isabella smiling wickedly.
“You are suspended, and this issue is going to be investigated, but until then, your papers and those of Alicia are on hold. If you are found guilty, you will need to repeat the class," Mr. Peter, the principal's assistant, added, and I rushed out of the office in tears. I grabbed my bag from the locker and sent a message to Alicia informing her of what had happened and apologizing for falling for Isabella's prank.
Once I got home, it was as if the floodgates had opened. Tears kept streaming down my face once I told my parents. I was a bit surprised my parents believed me despite not being there. I cried myself to sleep that night. Miles offered to look after me in the room, but I just don't know why Miss Daniella believes Isabella more than me. I shouldn't have gone, but it was too late. Crying won't solve the problem. I can only hope my innocence is proven soon. I swear I saw Cody looking sad once I left the office, or it could be a mocking smile.