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“I can’t think about college right now,” I said. “Not while I have bigger things to deal with.” Like my immediate future.
“Have you talked to Jason and Felicity about this?”
“Not yet. I wanted to make sure I knew my options first. I’m eighteen next week. I need to be able to stand on my own two feet. I need to know that if my circumstances change again, I can support myself.”
Her eyes widened with understanding. “You’re worried you might end up alone again?”
“I have to be realistic. Lily’s family did an amazing thing taking me in, but I’m not their responsibility. And this is just something I need to do. If I graduate early, I can get a full-time job. I can save some money.”
Mrs. Bennet ran a hand over her tight spiral curls. Even in her mid-forties, Sofia’s mom was stunning. It was hardly a surprise some of the guys at school had a crush on her.
“You’re serious about this?”
“I am.”
“I’ll make some inquiries. It’s not something the school board typically approves, but you make a compelling case.”
“Really?” Disbelief coated my words. “You’re not going to try to talk me out of it?”
“You’re a good student, Peyton, with a good GPA. Of course you’d need to have the right number of credits, but we can figure that out.”
“Thank you, thank you.” I couldn’t believe how easy it had been to convince her.
“Believe it or not, I am on your side.” She gave me another warm smile. “And I understand your situation more than you think. I admire your resolve and strength. You’re a bright girl with a bright future ahead of you. Don’t ever forget that.”
A tidal wave of emotion rose up inside me and I bit back the tears. I’d never grown up with that kind of praise and reassurance. My mom had never showered me with love or positive affirmations or pride. I was only ever a burden… a nuisance.
“Thank you,” the words came out thick, “that means a lot.”
“All I ask is that you remember it’s okay to ask for help, and it’s okay to accept help. Once we know if graduating early is a viable option, talk to Jason and Felicity. This isn’t a decision you should make alone.”
“I will, I promise.” I got up to leave, but she wasn’t done.
“Felicity called me last night. She said you’re ready to talk to someone.”
I wasn’t surprised. They were best friends. It was a strange dynamic. Lily and Poppy’s dad was the football coach, and Sofia and Aaron’s mom was the school guidance counselor. They were all friends long before they started working at Rixon High.
“I am. She already contacted a therapist.”
“Good. I think you’ll find it helpful to have a safe space to talk about everything that’s happened. But know my door is always open too.”
“Thank you, Mrs. B.”
She gave me a small nod. “Now get to class before your teacher complains I’m making their student tardy.”
I’d entered her office full of trepidation. But I walked out feeling something I hadn’t felt in a long time.
Hope.
* * *
“Peyton, wait up.”
I glanced over my shoulder to find Carrie-Anne Trombley hurrying after me. “Uh, hey,” I said. “Do you need something?”
“Actually, I’ve been trying to talk to you all week.”
“You have?”
