Page 47 of Take Care, Taylor
“Whatever’s left?” She laughed bitterly. “I’m keeping all these clothes and the car.”
“That’s fine.”
“I hope you’re happy with her.”
“We’re not together.”
“Sure.” She crossed her arms, her tone sharp enough to cut glass. “How many other girlfriends has she ruined for you?”
I didn’t answer.
There was nothing left to say anyway.
I walked out without another word, the echo of my footsteps following me down the hall and out into the cold air.
The night air hit harder than I expected—sharp, sobering, and colder than it should’ve been.
BULLY YEARS: ELEVENTH GRADE (FIRST SEMESTER)
AUDREY
Ohhhh my god!
I looked at this week’s ranking board in AP English, blinking my eyes to make sure what I was seeing was true.
I was ranked number one in the class—again.
Taylor was tied at number three with George Thompson, proving that he was falling off for the second month in a row.
What the hell is his deal lately?
Picking up my folder, I looked over at him.
“Why the long face?” I asked.
“Like you actually give a fuck.”
“You’re right. I don’t.”
I put away my pens and triple-checked my essay packet before zipping my bag.
“Erica dumped me,” Taylor said. “Out of nowhere, she just fucking dumped me.”
“Wow. That sucks.” I picked up my laptop. “I’m sure you’ll lure some other victim into your web soon, though, so… bye.”
“She said that someone told her I was cheating on her.”
“Again, Taylor—” I couldn’t even pretend to care. “You’ll have another girlfriend soon, so use it for writing inspiration.”
I left the room before he could lure me into a conversation I’d hate myself for joining.
Heading to the parking lot, I slid behind the wheel and sped away. As I was approaching the exit, Taylor jumped in front of my car.
What the hell?I slammed my foot on the brake and honked my horn.
“Move!” I screamed. “Are you out of your mind?”
He placed his hands on the hood, glaring at me.
